Under 10

Chateau la Grave Cuvee Expression Minervois 2003, 9.99 The Languedoc may be experiencing some difficulties with excess production at the moment. However, make no mistake; this region produces some of the most exciting, best value wines in the world. The Ch La Grave is a perfect example . . . ripe, rounded cherry and dark fruits with some ripe tannins, a very attractive heartiness, and a touch of class. A good allrounder to try with most red or white meats, or, for vegetarians, a bean casserole or cheesy bakes.

Available from: Country Choice, Nenagh; Grape Escape, Lucan; Harvest Off Licence, Galway; On the Grapevine, Dalkey; Patrick Stewart Wines, Sligo

Under 20

Chateau Cap des Faugeres Cotes de Castillon 200, 15 I know nothing of this wine other than that I enjoy it immensely. It offers the classic Bordeaux combination of cool, just-ripe fruits, a delightful pepperiness and some pleasing, drying tannins. It is thankfully lacking in the mass of over-extracted, jammy fruits, and swathes of new oak that ruin so many so-called 'serious' wines. This is a perfectly balanced wine that demands to be taken seriously.

Enjoy it with the Sunday roast.

Available from: Cheers Off Licence, Delgany; Castle Off Licence, Tralee; O'Driscolls, Caherciveen; Searsons, Monkstown

Anything goes

Chateau La Croix-Canon, Canon-Fronsac 1998, 25 Last week, I suggested that Canon-Fronsac was one area in Bordeaux offering real value. Since then I have tasted another example, this time from the firm of Jean-Pierre Moueix, better known for a host of very exclusive wines from Pomerol, including the legendary Petrus. This Merlot-based wine is drinking perfectly now; firm but with elegant plum fruits. I enjoyed it with grilled lamb chops, but any plainly cooked red meat would allow it to shine.

Available from: Donnybrook Fair; Gaffney's, Westport; Cheers Off Licence, Delgany; Searson's, Monkstown