White:
Las Casas del Toqui Semillon, Totihue- Cachapoal, 1998 (Dunnes Stores, £4.99). Semillon is one of the grapes we deserve to see more of: I love the way its creamy, lemon-curd flavours are cut right through by zingy acidity. This Chilean is fantastic value. Although it's still only January, I'm prepared to bet it'll be a bargain of the year . . .
Dietrich Alsace Riesling Reserve 1998 (Raheny Wine Cellar, Martin's Fairview, Lord Mayor's Swords, McCabes Blackrock, Thomas's Foxrock, Keilys Mt Merrion, Cheers - Old Orchard Rathfarnham, Wine Vault Portlaoise, Copes Castledermot, Pettitts in south-east and other outlets, usually £6.99). Wine merchants are forever extolling the unrecognised charms of Alsace Riesling: lovely, stylish wine, difficult to sell. The problem is that it's usually pretty pricey - but not this crisp, tangy example. Good for reviving jaded palates; good for your image. Riesling is pretty damned smart (provided you pronounce it right: reeceling please!)
Red:
Rasteau Les Peyrieres Cotes du Rhone Villages 1998 (Dunnes Stores, £5.99). In the hot 1998 vintage, this bargain red - a Bottle of the Week a couple of years ago - packs a powerful 14 per cent alcohol, with lusher berry fruit character than ever and all the familiar punch. If you like 'em big and bold, give it a whirl. That's still an unbeatable price.
Omnium Malbec, Mendoza, 1997 (Kellys Wine Vault, Clontarf, £6.99). In her new post, Julie Verling is sourcing some exciting wines. Here's a textbook Argentine Malbec, all soft, brambly fruit, spicy American oak, supple tannins, good acidity and a rewarding, slightly chewy finish. A heartwarming winter red.
Chateau Mandagot Coteaux du Langue- doc Montpeyroux 1997 (Karwigs Wine Warehouse Carrigaline, £7.95). One of those bottles that shows how distinctive wines from the south of France can be. Close your eyes and you'll swear you smell the wild herbs of the garrigue. Juicy, well made and delicious.
Vina Gracia Pinot Noir Relativo, Bio-Bio Valley, 1997 (Molloys group, Higgins Clonskeagh, Bird Flanagan Rialto, Kellys Clontarf, Jus de Vine Portmarnock, Vineyard Galway, McCambridges Galway, O'Keeffes Kilkenny, Macs Limerick, Domaine Ennis, O'Donovans Cork, usually £7.99). Pinot Noir, in tasty form at a price it rarely allows. See Bottle of the Week.