This fine, silky Sicilian barrel-matured blend blends a little juicy Cabernet with Nero d’Avola from high old vineyards. Nero d’Avola is one of the hero grapes of Sicily. Much of it was grown around the island’s high village of Poggioreale. One prime vineyard belonged to Dino Taschetta’s grandfather. Here he grew fruit with deep, rich flavours that greatly impressed the young Dino. Disaster struck, however, in 1968 when an earthquake hit the area. The vines were abandoned, but today Dino is restoring the vineyard to its former glory. He uses these Nero d’Avola grapes to make his much loved Tenuta Fenice wines, adding to this fine Riserva a portion of juicy Cabernet and ageing it all in barrel. Now with three years’ maturity, this Riserva has gathered complex, savoury, smoky tobacco and spice notes to flatter the dark cherry flavours. Perfect with roast lamb.

This glorious, 91pt, FIVE-time Gold-medal claret comes from Ludovic Roussillon – who also co-owns a small property with the Thienpont family of legendary (and extraordinarily expensive) Château Le Pin. Bordeaux is where our story began 40 years ago...So we’ve plenty of friends, like Ludovic. His Château lies across the river from our exclusive cellar Le Chai au Quai. The soils here are rich in limestone and quick draining, which concentrates the rich flavours of the grapes. The result here is a lavishly rich and expressive wine that definitely impresses. We love it!

Tucked away in Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux, next to Saint Emilion, is award winning Château de Colombe, a tiny estate much neglected until we took ownership in 2012. Now it’s being lavished with utmost care in the vineyard and the cellar. Our Head Winemaker, Haut-Brion-trained Jean-Marc Sauboua, quickly spotted the potential of its steep, south-facing slopes and limestone soils. Judging by the 11 Golds won over the last five vintages (two for 2020), he was spot on. 2020 has been unanimously declared as 'exceptional', its fruit deliciously ripe, which has made for a very much ‘drink me now’ style. Merlot with a little of both Cabernets and Malbec, aged a few months in barrel, this red is fruit-rich and supple. For now open early and decant.

You’ve probably heard of ‘Super Tuscan’ wines (red wines from Tuscany which often include both local and international grapes varieties in the blend). Well, this is the concept behind this new Sicilian star. Winemaker Domenico De Gregorio (known as Mimmo to his friends) calls it a ‘Super Sicilian’. He has taken local charmer Perricone and blended it with dark berry-spiced Syrah and ripe red plum Merlot. The result? A juicy, berry-intense red with a soft, mouth-coating texture. Capturing the warm heart of Sicily, it’s so good, Mimmo put his name on it! Silky-smooth, it’s great to savour slowly on its own. Or why not pair with some delicious Sicilian classics, such as arancini or pasta alla norma (with aubergine), for the best experience?

Prosecco is a joyful fizz – currently exceptionally popular around the world! It’s kind on the pocket, and you can drink it whenever the fancy takes you! The Italians certainly do so do . This delightful example was sourced from vineyards in the Euganean Hills near Padua. Known locally as the ‘happy hills’, here life is sweet – la vita è dolce! – and vacationers flock to the promise of fun and good wine. These Glera vines grow on volcanic soils which lend crisp minerality to the lively, fruity character of Casa Cantalini. Pop the cork and out fizzes a fragrant ensemble of crisp orchard fruits and flinty freshness. It's a spumante, so it offers a steady stream of bubbles and is very moreish. Don’t wait for a celebration, enjoy a chilled glass any time.

France’s most elegant source for fine rosé is Provence. Long hours of blue skies and blissful sunshine, with cooling breezes from the Med, ensure grapes of delicious ripeness and freshness. Maison Maillet is a bright, crisp pink from a 4th-generation family estate that prides itself on wines of authenticity and charm. It lies close to the renowned appellation of Bandol, the wines of which are some of the most expensive of Provence, and the famous Grand Prix circuit. With the wind in the right direction, speed fanatics can hear the whine of tyres. Fast cars aside, this delicate pink is a classic blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah. Gentle summer berries, bright citrus freshness, it’s perfect sipped solo or served with salads or seafood.