White
Disnoko Dry Furmint Tokaji 1997 (La Cave, £12.50 a bottle; available from some SuperValus/Centras and many independent off-licences, usually £6.99). Here's something deliciously different - a really full-flavoured, spicy, slightly earthy dry white made from the grape that gives Hungary its dazzling sweet wines.
Seresin Estate Chardonnay, Marlborough, 1998 (Ely, £21 a bottle; available from selected Superquinns, Carvills Camden Street, Bennetts Howth, Thomas's Foxrock, Greenacres Wexford, McCambridges Galway and other outlets, usually about £12.49). The "Anything-ButChardonnay" trend is definitely kicking in, Erik Robson says - until customers try this suave New Zealander - smooth and rich but rewardingly subtle.
Red
Chateau Pech-Latt Corbieres 1998 (Ely, £3.35 a glass; available from Molloys Liquor Stores, Pettitts in south-east, usually about £7.99). Small price, big personality - and organic to boot. See Bottle of the Week.
Shingle Peak Pinot Noir, Marlborough, 1998 (Ely, £4.60 a glass; available from Mitchells Kildare Street and Glasthule, £9.50). New World Pinot Noir often doesn't live up to the expectations set by high prices - but here's one that combines value with an easy, ripe style. Very engaging.
Saumur-Champigny, Domaine Filliatreau, 1997 (La Cave, £19 a bottle; Searsons Monkstown, On the Grapevine Dalkey, Wine Centre Kilkenny, DeVine Wines Letterkenny, usually about £9.95). Another one to perk up jaded palates. Lovely, lively Loire Cabernet Franc - like a mouthful of loganberries.
Lamole di Lamole Chianti Classico 1997 (wine of the month in La Cave, £4.25 a glass; available from Mitchells Kildare Street and Glasthule, McCambridges Galway, about £12.95). An excellent Chianti from an excellent vintage, this is a classic treat, delivering all the harmony and intensity you could wish for.