Something for the weekend: 2002 Norton Malbec; 2002 Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Kabinett; 1996 Muga Reserva Seleccion Especial Rioja

Under a fiver: 2002 Norton Malbec, £4.87-£4.99, Asda, Safeway, Oddbins

With its plummy, juicy, mulberry fruitiness and summer-pudding bite, this is the quintessential, value for money Argentinian malbec. A consistently gluggy little number from Bodega Norton that suits an everyday Italian supper from a slow risotto to a fast tomato and anchovy spaghetti.

Under a tenner: 2002 Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Kabinett, £9.99, Marks & Spencer

There's something compelling about the name of this featherweight, off-dry white - the spice garden of Ürzig - that translates into the wine itself. It's a delicate, meadow- fresh, summer thrill of mouthwateringly crisp, off-dry, appley fruitiness that sets the tongue tingling in anticipation of a lingering late summery lunch or evening al fresco.

Splash out: 1996 Muga Reserva Seleccion Especial Rioja, £15.99, Waitrose

Made from a blend of two-thirds tempranillo plus garnacha, mazuelo, graciano, this classic rioja blend carries its smoky, vanilla-scented fruit through to an exceptionally smooth and gamey-rich palate of concentrated fruitiness. That touch of leathery maturity will suit roast guinea fowl, quail or a free-range garlic and butter chicken. AR