Wine Box; New World News

Palmeras Estate Nancagua Chilean Oak Aged Cabernet Sauvignon 1995, Safeway, pounds 4.99

Hunter's Sauvignon Blanc 1997

This week's Wine Box is more about great buys than great bargains. Palmeras Estate Nancagua Chilean Oak Aged Cabernet Sauvignon 1995 is instantly, easily appealing, its ripe fruit mellowed by wood. The Wine Society sells one that's almost identical. Second up is Hunter's Sauvignon Blanc 1997: savour its soft, intensely aromatic gooseberry fruit and bright acidity. Many suppliers are still on the 1996 vintage. The 1997 should be widely available very soon, or you can mail order it from Hall Batson in Norwich (01603 415 115) for pounds 9.92, or alternatively from William Steadman in Newport (01633 430 055) for pounds 9.45.