Tesco Chianti Classico Riserva, 1995 (Tesco, £6.99).

Tesco Chianti Classico Riserva, 1995 (Tesco, £6.99).

It's hard enough to find any Chianti worth drinking for under £7, let alone one with the bit of extra ageing and extra alcohol that makes it a Riserva. And so tasty. See Bottle of the Week.

Ceppi Storici Barbera d'Asti, Araldica, 1995 (Findlaters Hatch Street, Higgins Clonskeagh, Wine Centre Kilkenny, Octavius Sligo and some other outlets, usually about £7.50).

One of Nick Belfrage's new classics from northern Italy, and very attractive it is, too, with lively acidity and gentle spice. A wine that suits all kinds of food.

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Sagramoso Valpolicella Superiore, Pasqua, 1995 (Mitchells, Duffys Terenure and soon spreading to other outlets, typically about £9.99).

Before the century is out, let's help to free Valpol of its cheap 'n' nasty image. The good stuff - like this single-vineyard, old vines version, new to Ireland - is a mouth-watering treat, worth every penny.

Spargolo, Cecchi, 1995 (Tesco, £10.95).

Another great buy. This lush Tuscan with its beautifully lingering flavours tastes as good as many an upmarket Italian with a much swankier price-tag.