The region of Cariñena is “home to some of the best value reds of Spain, if not the world” (Decanter) and this gorgeously intense, ripe fruit red is from one of the most awarded cellars there. High up and inland, the Cariñena region (confusingly it’s also the name of a grape!) enjoys a climate both Continental and Mediterranean. In lay terms, that means plenty of sunshine, but not too hot. Add in the grand age of the vines and the stony soils and it’s the perfect recipe for intensely flavoured, well balanced reds. Viña Altogrado in a nutshell. Made from old vine Garnacha grapes, this red is seriously long and brightly fruity – the ideal partner for traditional Spanish lamb dishes, grilled meats or tapas. A great choice for a barbecue, too.

Tiny bubbles that swell up in your mouth and linger for quite a while are a feature of this sparkling Italian wine. The sweet smell of honey gives way for fruity notes of gala apples and ripe pears on the plate, which were enhanced by the slight boost of sweetness.

A nice change from Aussie bubbles, this German brut has a surprisingly smooth and creamy taste for the uninitiated, with fizzing fruit flavours and a delicious lingering finish. Prost!

They said he was 'aluado' ('loony') but the ever inventive José Neiva Correia has proved his doubters wrong. Alicante Bouschet produces some of the world's deepest coloured wines and is often used to enhance Portugal's top reds. Here you find it in its pure form thanks to José. A legend of Portuguese wine, he combines generations of tradition with an inquisitive spirit undimmed at 60+ years of age. Following on from last year's triple Gold medal triumph, José again used grapes from his own historic estate, Quinta de Porto Franco, which dates back to the 12th century and is thought to be the oldest vineyard in Alenquer. Thanks to a great season, Aluado 2017 is a big, rich wine best served with roast meats - try with pork or rack of lamb.

A smartly-made pink Sparkling, made from Sangiovese fruit grown in NSW's Hilltops. Drink whilst young and fresh, with or without food.Medium orange-pink blush. Savoury red berry, dried herb and grilled nuts on the nose. Bright cherry and raspberry fruit with fresh limey acidity, underlying savoury earth and cola characters, and a lightly spicy finish.

Crisp and refreshing, with notes of green apple and citrus. Fine bubbles and a clean finish. Perfect as an aperitif.

APPEARANCE: Pale straw. AROMA: Floral with green apples and citrus. PALATE: Elegant and Lively. Softly textured with peaches, cream and citrus acidity. CELLAR: Drink now whilst fresh and lively.

Bright, intense ruby red in colour, Tasca Regaleali Nero d'Avola is full flavoured with notes of sour cherry, mulberry, blueberry and vanilla. Herbaceous spice such as sage add further complexity leading into a beautifully balanced red wine.