Wines of the week: MacMurray Russian River Valley Pinot Gris; Claude Val Rouge; Uco Valley Malbec

Terry Kirby selects the best bottles to buy

Sunday lunch

MacMurray Russian River Valley Pinot Gris 2013

There is a definite autumnal tone to this well-balanced Californian – flavours of figs, ripe peaches and apricot and a hint of honey and spicy smoke underneath, but the whole package is nicely restrained. A good match for scallops, all prime white fish and light chicken dishes – but beware the 14.5% ABV. £11.99, Tesco

Midweek meal

Claude Val Rouge 2013

A typical southern French blend of Grenache, Carignan, Syrah and Merlot from the sun-baked vineyards of Hérault in central Languedoc – the perfect all-round wine: medium-bodied, drinkable, fruity, some soft spices. Suitable for all types of Mediterranean foods. £7.50, jeroboams.co.uk

Bargain basement

Uco Valley Malbec 2013

This is remarkable and justly multiple-award-winning: succulent, juicy, fresh notes of ripe blackberries and plums, considerable depth of flavour and a long finish to savour. Tastes as good as something twice the price, so fantastic value from Aldi again. £5.99, Aldi