Something for the weekend?

Talaris Chardonnay; 2000 Yalumba Barossa Shiraz; Fernand Thill Grand Cru NV Champagne

Under a fiver: 2002 Talaris Chardonnay, £3.99, Thresher, Wine Rack

Some of the New World ethos appears to have infiltrated Nagyrede in Hungary. It shows in this surprisingly modern, full-flavoured chardonnay which offers plenty of toffee-fudge flavours while retaining an admirable degree of freshness. Even the old-fashioned labels have been given a makeover to match the contents.

Under a tenner: 2000 Yalumba Barossa Shiraz, £6.39, Tesco

Take advantage of the 20 per cent off Australian wines till the end of Tesco's Autumn Wine Festival on Tuesday and pick up this Barossa Valley Shiraz from Robert Hill-Smith's Yalumba, normally £7.99. Typically aromatic with opulent cherry and blackberry flavours, you won't get many better deals. Try it with meats, with a touch of sweetness in the sauce or glaze.

Splash out: Fernand Thill Grand Cru NV Champagne, £18.99, Safeway (selected stores)

A blend of the fine 1995 and 1996 vintages, this stylish champagne shows what good value a champagne can be in the hands of a producer like Marie-Therèse Thill. Scented with the red berry fruit of the dominant pinot noir, it's a delicate and intensely flavoured antidote to many of the better-known, and somewhat pricier, champagne brands.