In case you find the whole idea of fake corks off-putting, here are a few warming winter reds which offer an interesting change in terms of character, rather than closure:
Santa Isabel Malbec Reserva 1991 (Dunnes Stores, £6.99). Check out the upward course of Argentinian wine with this enticing example of Malbec, the local speciality. There's a firm structure in there, underneath the big blackberry and blackcurrant flavours that initially emerge. Well made, good value.
Casa Cadaval Trincadeira Preta, Vinho Regional Ribatejo, 1995 (Molloys, £8.99) Here it is at last! This splendid wine - one of the highlights of a tasting tour of Portugal last April - is here in time to deliver some magic to the dullest evenings of the year. See Bottle of the Week.
Gallo Sonoma Frei Ranch Vine- yard Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley, 1994 (Carvills, McCabes, Greenacres Wexford, O'Donovans Cork and some other outlets, usually £14.99). From the range of single vineyard wines which proves that Gallo knows all about quality as well as quantity, an outstanding offering. Sumptuously rich, berry flavours with hints of dark chocolate, herbs and pepper that linger beautifully. It can make the simplest plate of spaghetti thrilling.