Something For The Weekend?

4 Les Jamelles Merlot; 2004 Ken Forrester Chenin Blanc; 2004 Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc

Looking for a bargain red to liven up barbecues? Well, this is as close as you'll get. A youthful, southern French merlot with cherry and blackcurrant fruitiness tinged with spicy oak and robust southern tannins.

Under a Tenner: 2004 Ken Forrester Chenin Blanc, £6.99, Sainsbury's

An attractive Cape-meets-Vouvray style of dry white from the master of South African chenin blanc. Fruit richness plus an intensity of stonefruit flavours and a touch of honey make it perfect for summer salads, chicken and fish dishes.

Splash Out: 2004 Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, around £12.50, Flying Corkscrew (01442 412311), Noel Young (01223 844744), Handford (020-7589 6113)

A Kiwi sauvignon distinguished by youthful fruit and vigour. Refreshingly tropical and ripe, rounded by a subtle touch of oak.