Under 10

Bestue de Otto Bestue, Somontano 2003 9.95 This is one of the best value wines in the country. A blend of Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon, it is beautifully light and elegant with delicate blackcurrant fruits. This is the sort of wine that goes well with a great many foods. With the help of a fellow journalist, I consumed a bottle with the greatest of ease along with some Serrano ham and pan catalan . . . toast rubbed with tomatoes, olive oil and garlic.

Available from: exclusive to Dunnes Stores

Under 20

Enate Rosado, Somanatano 2004, around 15 The roses of Somontano are very popular in Spain, largely because of Enate. This ambitious company, from their very smart arty premises, produces a distinctive Rosado made entirely from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape. Twice voted Spain's best rose, it has a quite amazing vibrant colour, fresh lightly textured raspberry and strawberry fruits, a mineral touch at the finish. A perfect lunchtime wine, or with chicken, full-flavoured fish or just for sipping by itself.

Available from: Redmond's, Ranelagh; Claudio's, George's Arcade; World Wide Wines, Waterford; Lynch's, Glanmire, Cork

Anything goes

Secastilla, Vinas del Vero, Somontano 2003, 33 Made from a plot of old vine Garnacha, this was one of the best red wines of the trip. Fragrant aromas of strawberries and black pepper on the nose, with perfectly balanced fresh strawberries in a rich but smooth wine. It is dangerously easy to drink. Expensive, but worth it in my book. You could enjoy it with any red meat, game or vegetarian cheesy bakes.

Available from: Jus de Vine, Portmarnock; On the Grapevine, Booterstown; Unwined, Swords; Lynch Bottle Store, Tullamore; Chawke's, Limerick; Morton's, Galway