Food & Drink: Good wine buys

Cotes du Luberon 1992 ( pounds 2.99, Safeway). The guiding hand of Hugh Ryman has produced an aromatic, fruity, pear-like white wine of richness and substance, so much better than the 1991.

Leasingham Hutt Creek Sauvignon Blanc 1992 ( pounds 4.19, Oddbins). Another good-value Australian sauvignon blanc with typical herbaceous aromas, a hint of sauvignon and good, full-bodied fruit ripeness.

Domaine de Grandchamp Sauvignon Blanc 1992 ( pounds 5.95, Sainsbury's). This is the best vintage of Bergerac sauvignon from Nick Ryman (Hugh's father) that I have tasted. Closer to Loire in style than Bordeaux, it is pungently grassy and more penetratingly gooseberryish. A class act.

Chablis 1992 Cuvee Christian Race ( pounds 4.99, Tesco). Crisp, dry, elegant, refreshing chablis. Just reduced by Tesco from pounds 5.99, which makes this a bargain. Domaine Barthes 1992 Syrah Coteaux du Languedoc ( pounds 4.59, Thresher, Wine Rack, Bottoms Up). Youthful, succulent, smoky, raspberry syrah, ideal for lamb chops and balmy evening barbecues.

Fizz of the month: Deutz Marlborough Cuvee Brut ( pounds 10.99, Tesco). Bang on form again after a dip in quality last year, this top pinot noir-based New Zealand sparkler explodes with creamy, elegant, tangy fruit.