Something For The Weekend?

3 La Forêt Sainte Hilaire, Bordeaux; Bertie's Grenashe, Saint-Chinian; 2004 Jean Daneel Signature Chenin Blanc

Under a Fiver: 2003 La Forêt Sainte Hilaire, Bordeaux £3.99, from £6.49, Tesco Autumn Wine Festival

Initially leafy and scented with sweet capsicum-like undertones, the medium-bodied fruitiness of this young claret from the 2003 vintage displays juicy blackcurranty notes with a balancing acidity.

Under a Tenner: 2002 Bertie's Grenashe, Saint-Chinian £7.99, Oddbins

From Englishman Bertie Eden in the southern French appellation of Saint-Chinian, the high content of grenache (mis-spelt to avoid conflict with the authorities) makes for a super-ripe style that cries out for grilled meats.

Splash Out: 2004 Jean Daneel Signature Chenin Blanc £16.95 or £15.68 case/bottle, Jeroboams shops (020-7985 1560)

The delicate toasted oak aromas on this "vouvray in the Cape" make way for a rich, restrained white whose pineapple is enlivened by a honeyed edge and refreshing bitterness.