Wines of the Week: Lourensford Winemaker's Selection Chardonnay 2011; Purato Nero D'Avola 2011; Henry Fessy Brouilly 2010

Terry Kirby selects the best bottles to buy

Sunday Lunch

Lourensford Winemaker's Selection Chardonnay 2011

From a South African estate founded in 1700, a Chardonnay with all the qualities of the New World – rich, buttery, fruit flavours of pineapple and peach with a touch of almonds – restrained by some Old World elegance, structure, and carefully integrated oak, which together create a harmonious, well-balanced whole. Smoked fish or simple herb-roasted chicken are the ideal lunch partners. £11.20, sawinesonline.co.uk; £12, dickenshousewine.co.uk (2009); £14.99, finewinesellers.co.uk

Midweek meal

Purato Nero D'Avola 2011

The soft tannins and fresh red fruit flavours of Sicily's signature grape make it almost the perfect wine to accompany a midweek pasta dish, but it is also good for fish, particularly if there are any tomatoes, capers or olives involved. The organic viticulture here delivers added earthiness and depth, which, coupled with the eco-friendly sustainable production, create a terrific package. £7.75, cellarandkitchen.adnams.co.uk

Bargain basement

Henry Fessy Brouilly 2010

Ignore the ludicrous hype that is Beaujolais Nouveau Day this month and instead stock up on this generously discounted example of the best the area can offer. A world away from frothy Ribena-style Nouveau, this is medium- to full-bodied, mellow and slightly spicy, yet full of the characteristic vibrancy of the Gamay grape. Good with grilled meats and hard cheeses. £8.79, Waitrose (reduced from £10.99 until 4 December)