Under a tenner

Wolvenbosch Sauvignon, Western Cape, South Africa 2005 8.50 As I have mentioned before on these pages, South Africa is making some brilliant Sauvignon Blancs, combining the fruit of New Zealand with the dry minerals of the Loire Valley. This example, made by Ivy du Toit, a very promising young female winemaker, is cracking value. Light fresh and crisp with vibrant, fresh, leafy green fruits, this is a wine to sip with friends. If you do want to have it with food, why not try goats' cheese salad?

Under 20

Bluff Hill Sparkling NV New Zealand 13.99 Yes, I know the New Year's Eve is over, but this could be the perfect way to get over the post Christmas blues without spending a fortune. Made from a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir (the grapes used to make Champagne) this has absolutely delicious, fresh, clean lemon fruits with a light creaminess, and a crisp finish. Drink it lightly chilled as an aperitif, or for a decadent lunch with scrambled eggs.

Anything goes

Saint Aubin 1er cru Les Charomis 2003 24 Saint Aubin is a small village tucked in behind the posh appellations of Puligny and Chassagne-Montrachet. A very stylish young burgundy with the classic aromas of toasty new oak, and white flowers, a racy crisp palate with light hazelnuts and a long dry finish.

This could easily be mistaken for its more illustrious neighbours but for the price . . . it is considerably cheaper. Save this for the finest fish and seafood; brill or black sole with butter, lobster or scallops in a creamy sauce.