Something for the Weekend: 2008 Muriel Reserva Rioja Alavesa; La Bouëtte de Bourgogne; 2011 Robert Oatley Shiraz, McLaren Vale

Muriel Reserva Rioja Alavesa; La Bouëtte de Bourgogne; 2011 Robert Oatley Shiraz, McLaren Vale

Night In

Night In

2008 Muriel Reserva Rioja Alavesa

With its aromatic notes of vanilla and woodsmoke, this is a classic, red-cherry hearted reserva rioja from Elciego, whose pure tempranillo-based fruit shows the smooth and satisfyingly textured succulence of maturity. £6.66, down from £9.99, The Co-operative, until 17 September.

Dinner Party

La Bouëtte de Bourgogne

This fine, blended white Burgundy (hence no vintage) is crisp and savoury with a spoonful of the crème fraiche smoothness and mineral qualities of a chablis and an appetizingly bone dry finish. £13, Averys, 9 Culver Street, Bristol, BS1 5LD (08432241224).

Splash Out

2011 Robert Oatley Shiraz, McLaren Vale

Winner of Decanter’s Australian Red Rhône style under £15 trophy, displays peppery aromatics mingling with bright, smooth blackcurrant fruit and a savoury finish for seamless balance. £11.99 - £13.99, Bon Coeur Fine Wines (01765688200), Philglas & Swiggot (02074020002), Oddbins.