in terms of selection, advice, accessories, and delivery. Not all of them manage this, but those that succeed are worth a visit.

You will find they are friendly places that offer valuable guidance if you are prepared to follow their advice.

The National Off-Licence Association (Noffla), the body that represents some 300 off-licences, holds two annual 'wine oscars' events. One is for the best offlicence, a fiercely-contested competition; the other for the wines. Fifteen importers put forward over 200 wines, which are tasted blind by a panel (including your correspondent). Fifteen are then chosen, one each from a number of categories.

The results are always interesting, and throw up a few surprises. In the newworld section, Australia triumphed, carrying off five of seven awards. This included a clean sweep of the white wines, two of which I mention below.

This week, I have selected three of the award-winning new-world wines, and will follow that up with three from the old world next week. All of the wines below should be available from a Noffla Offlicence near you. They should also have a handy brochure with a list of all the award winners.

Wine Australia will be holding a number of consumer events in the coming months. First up is a presentation of the Clare Valley by legendary winemaker Tim Adams. This will include a tutored tasting of a range of Clare Valley Wines. For further details, contact John McDonnell of Wine Australia on 065 7077264 or john. mcdonnell@wineaustralia. com.

JJ McWilliams Semillon Chardonnay 2005, SE Australia

BEST NEW WORLD WHITE WINE UNDER /8

Description One of the bestvalue inexpensive whites around; clean ripe peaches cut through with a lovely orange note.

Available from stores nationwide at 7.99.

Drink with a great aperitif or party wine.

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Beringer Founder's Estate Old Vine Zinfandel 2004

NEW WORLD WINE UNDER /14 AND RED WINE OF THE YEAR

Description It is rare to find anything drinkable from California under 14, still less a mature, easy smooth wine such as this.

Available from stores nationwide at 13.99.

Drink with nothing too powerful . . . a roast of lamb.

114/20

Peter Lehmann Barossa Chardonnay
2005 BEST NEW WORLD WHITE WINE UNDER /14

Description A brilliant wine at the price, with a good intensity of pear and apple fruits, along with a subtle layer of smoky spice, and a nicely rounded finish.

Available from stores nationwide at 9.99.

Drink with fish and seafood in rich creamy sauces.

113.5/20

Errazuriz Max Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon, Aconcagua Valley
2003 BEST RED WINE UNDER /20

Description big and fullbodied with rich lush blackcurrants and cassis, but still retaining some elegance to counter all that power.

Available from stores nationwide at 14.99.

Drink with something substantial . . . a rich casserole or grilled red meats.

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