Blaye, on the Right Bank of the Gironde, offers outstanding claret at affordable prices. This is thanks to a growing number of producers determined to match the standards of Saint-Emilion nearby. Les Grands Maréchaux has been on top form since new owners, Christopher Reboul Salze and Etienne Barre, bought it in 1997. They introduced the legendary Stéphane Derenoncourt as consultant (he has worked at many top Saint-Emilion estates, including La Mondotte, Canon La Gaffelière and Pavie Macquin). A fine Merlot-rich claret that always offers exceptional value and here with a decade of age. Stand the bottle upright to allow any sediment to drop to the bottom. Then pour carefully. Enjoy with simple game, roast chicken or mushroom goulash.

A classic Australian wine, Wynns Black Label Shiraz was previously known as Wynns Black Label Hermitage. Typically showing superb fruit density, with ample red forest berry fruit and spice and supple tannins, Black Label Shiraz typifies Coonawarras mid-weight elegant style.

The highly regarded champagne producer, Moutard, also have a noteable presence in Burgundy and Cognac.The family produce a pinot noir from the village of Epineuil, which is a small wine producing appellation in the sub-region of Tonnerre in northern Burgundy very close to Chablis. The wine can be described as having intense ruby colour. Notes of cherry, raspberry and black fruits, and the whole is underlined by a subtle mineral note. This complex bouquet is matched in the mouth with wild cherry, wild strawberry, and a touch of liquorice. Supple and silky, full and well-rounded, a very pleasant wine.

Grapes for this fine Gran Reserva were taken from 30 to 60 year old vines grown at 400 metres above sea level – key to the wine’s elegance, richness and complexity. Matured in French and American oak to lend subtle spice notes, this fine Gran Reserva makes a delicious partner to game or lamb. Best to decant early.

Peter Lehmann The Barossan Shiraz is a complex and layered wine with aromas of lifted cherry and dark fruit combining seamlessly with chocolate and mocha undertones. A full-bodied wine with fine tannins and a soft, supple finish.

A wine made against all odds. A small batch production blended from Tumbarumba and Margaret River made by legendary winemaker Bryan Martin.

1998 was the fourth successive drought vintage in the Clare Valley. This Riesling has a fuller orange blossom flavour and aroma produced from a drought year.

Don’t miss this rare chance to secure a magnificent wine from a top producer that’s in seriously short supply. Made by an acclaimed winemaker at the top of their game, this is a slice of wine history you don’t want to miss. Add it to your collection while you can.