Under a tenner Preece Shiraz, Victoria, Australia 2003, 9.99, available exclusively from Dunnes Stores The presentation may not be the best, but this is a classic Aussie Shiraz at a very competitive price. Big, rich and powerful wine, full of ultra-ripe plum fruits, plenty of warming alcohol and a rounded finish.

Great with red meats . . . grilled or roasted, or a hearty casserole. Take note that Dunnes will be offering this at an even more impressive 7.99 a bottle from 18 January to 7 February.

Under 20 Finca Antigua, La Mancha Spain 11.95, available from James Nicholson Wine Merchant through:

The Lakes, Blessington; The Old Stand, Mullingar; Cheers, Shankhill; Donnybrook Fair; Caprani, Ashford The rain in Spain does not actually fall on the plain. The massive region of La Mancha, just south of Madrid is arid, almost desert-like. It is also home to some of the most exciting new wines of Spain. Finca Antigua is an ambitious project owned by Rioja producer Martinez Bujanda. Their Syrah is excellent value with its perfectly ripe, rounded plum fruits, very toothsome savoury edge, and light dry tannins on the finish. Perfect with grilled lamb, pork or beef.

Anything goes Bellingham The Maverick Syrah 2003, 23.99, Martha's Vineyard, Rathfarnham; Jus de Vin, Portmarnock; Grape Escape, Lucan; Thomas Woodberry, Galway In recent years, South Africa has started to make some very impressive Syrah, suggesting that it has a real future. This is a recent release from one of the countries most successful exporters. It is not a wine for wimps with its hearty alcohol, but it also has huge levels of sexy, ripe, dark fruit overlaid with sweet spice and tannins.

Definitely one to fortify you against the winter winds. Try it with game, or well-hung beef.