A refreshing Italian white wine for a snip …

Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico 2022 (Italy)

A dry white wine with crisp acidity from the Marche region of central Italy, this Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi wine is a very good example of the fresh, zesty wines from the Verdicchio grape. 

Aromas of pear, citrus and honey on the nose lead to flavours of pear, lemon and a faint note of almond on the palate, with a long mineral finish.  This is a very good value wine which is perfect as a refreshing aperitif and also pairs well with a seafood dish. A perfect accompaniment to grilled salmon and spaghetti al limone!

Available from Co-op (£7)

An expressive red wine from Bergerac. Perfect for a barbecue!

Château Bel-Air, Bergerac 2020 (France)

This expressive red wine from Bergerac in the Dordogne, just to the east of Bordeaux, is a very good example of the high-quality, good value wines from this appellation. 

A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, this Château Bel-Air 2020 is an elegant, well-balanced wine with generous tannins and a long finish. With plum, cherry and black fruits on the nose, and blackcurrant, plum and vanilla on the palate, this is an excellent match for a grilled or roast meat dish, or with roasted vegetables. Perfect for a barbecue!

Available from Majestic (£8.99; Mix Six £7.99)