We have two budget wines from Lidl this week. I don’t usually feature wines at less than €8, but this is the time when school and holiday bills hit the hardest and this pair are both very drinkable, simple and lightly fruity. I liked the merlot in particular. They come from the Languedoc, the world’s largest vineyard. There is also a sauvignon blanc which I was less keen on, and a malbec, which I haven’t tried yet.

Chevalier de Fauvert Chardonnay 2024, Pays d’Oc

11%, €7.99

Light and refreshing with textured exotic fruits. Drink by itself or with salmon or grilled sea bass.

Chevalier de Fauvert Merlot 2024, Pays d’Oc

13%, €7.69

Soft sweet ripe plums and cherries with a rounded easy finish. Good by itself, even better with grilled pork chops, or chicken dishes.