Under 10

Sparr Riesling Reserve 2005, normally 12.99, down to 9.99 for Christmas This would be a very smart choice as an all-purpose white wine for Christmas; light enough to share a glass with friends that drop in unexpectedly, but big enough to handle most fish and seafood dishes as well as pork, chicken and even turkey. It's at the right price too. Ripe, rounded and full of red apple fruits, with a soft easy finish.

Under 20

Domaine du Salvard Cheverney 2005, 11.99 This is not on any special promotion, but was one of my favourites at a recent O'Brien's tasting. Cheverney is a little-known region in the Loire Valley, producing some excellent light white wines, usually given a lift by the addition of some Sauvignon. This wonderful wine is a blend of Chardonnay and Sauvignon; it has enticing herby aromas, beautifully elegant crisp mineral fruits, and a very dry finish. Ideal with seafood, or maybe a goat's cheese salad. Great wine at a great price.

Anything goes

Chateau Haut-Bages Averous, Pauillac, Bordeaux 1998 down from 50 to 29.95 Ch Haut-Bages-Averous is the second wine of the very highly-rated Ch Lynch-Bages, made from grapes not considered quite good enough for the 'grand vin'. Do not consider this a second-rate wine however. This is classic Bordeaux from one of the very best producers, a delicious maturing claret with classy, elegant, poised blackcurrant fruits, a herbal touch and an excellent long dry finish. It would be heavenly with a simple roast of lamb or beef.