Matt Skinner's guide to the best wines for all occasions

Torres, Viña Esmeralda 2003, from Penedes, Spain, £5.50 at Tesco

"Fantastic with Vietnamese or Thai food, anything where the ingredients are fragrant or spicy. Delicious and cheap."

NIGHT IN WITH FRIENDS

Montana, Sauvignon Blanc 2005, from Marlborough, New Zealand, £6.99 at Oddbins

"Everyone loves Sauvignon Blanc. Clean and fresh, it smells like passionfruit and gooseberry. Montana is a big company but their attention to detail is excellent."

BEST WITH A CHINESE TAKEAWAY

The Naked Grape, Riesling 2004, from Pfalz, Germany, £5.99 at Waitrose

"Made by one of the best white winemakers on the planet. A touch of sweetness means it is great with anything sweet, sour or a little bit spicy. Much better than a can of Stella."

BEST WITH A PIZZA

Frescobaldi, Remole 2003, from Tuscany, Italy, £6.99 at Oddbins

"Sangiovese can be hard work. But put it with anything a little oily, or pizza with its tomatoes and spicy toppings, and you won't notice the trademark drying tannins - in fact they help make the food taste better. Perfect for a night in front of the TV."

IMPRESSING THE IN-LAWS

Vasse Felix, Cabernet/Merlot 2001, from Western Australia, Australia, £9.99 from Majestic

"If Dad is a bit of a wine buff, take this. It is a big, rich, dry red. A classic - not too leftfield."

SPLASHING THE CASH

Louis Roederer, Brut Premier NV, from Champagne, France, £29.99 at Majestic

"Incredible champagne, brilliant for special occasions - whether it's a new job, birthday, just married, or recently divorced. Without doubt one of the best non-vintage Champagnes on the market."