The structure is defined by wonderful balance. The style is vigorous and frank, with a surprisingly rich middle palate, finishing with lively vivacity. Domaine Christian Salmon Sancerre leaves one with an overall sensation of elegance and harmony

As close as you get to genuine Châteauneuf power – and with a Gold medal pedigree too, winning Gold for the last eight vintages. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre are the three mainstays of this champion that boasts layers of velvety ripe black fruit, liquorice and spicy complexity. It's from the only co-operative cellar in Châteauneuf du Pape, the top appellation of the southern Rhône, and is owned and run by local growers. The grapes are from vineyards that abut the famous name appellation and share the same stone strewn soil that promotes superb ripeness and richness of fruit. The vines are old and gnarled, producing few grapes but with rare concentration of flavour. It's made by Châteauneuf winemaker Thierry Ferlay ... and it's very, very good!

Want a sassily fresh white handy in the fridge? Pop in a bottle of La Folie de Pierre. It’s an appetising creation from Pierre-Jean Sauvion, formerly in charge of winemaking at Muscadet’s famous Château du Cléray, an estate owned by his uncle. Pierre-Jean now has a number of projects on the go. Having studied oenology in Bordeaux and worked in Australia and California, he is the epitome of the modern, outward looking French winemaker, whose approach shines through in this contemporary style Sauvignon. He sources grapes for La Folie from trusted friends in Touraine, Pays Nantais and Haut Poitou, to strike a balance of complexity, freshness and ripe fruit. Enjoy chilled solo or with food – we suggest asparagus risotto or courgette frittata.