Still and sparkling wines that are easy to drink, don’t need food and are available on the high street – five of them at under £7.50. For more ideas, especially if you want to aim a bit higher, check out my festive Champagne, Red and White Wine guides and my Wines of the Week.
Wine Atlas Côtes de Thau 2014, Languedoc, France
Breezy, light (12% abv), southern French blend of Sauvignon, Grenache Blanc and Vermentino. Zesty grapefruit and nettle flavour with a suggestion of white peach and pear. Reduced in price since September. If it’s not in your local branch, have a look for the Wine Atlas Marsanne 2014 (£4.75).
£4.50, Asda
Tesco *finest Saint-Mont 2014, France
This was one of my Festive White recommendations, but at this price it also makes a mouthwateringly tangy, fruity party wine. A great value alternative to Sauvignon.
£5.50, Tesco
Toro Loco Tempranillo 2014, Utiel Requeña, Spain
A juicy, soft red made from the grape variety that dominates Rioja. Red berry fruit, a touch of spice and some tannin to give a bit of grip.
£3.59, Aldi
Winemakers’ Selection Nero d’Avola 2013
Smooth, medium-bodied Sicilian red with juicy, slightly raisiny black fruit flavours.
£6, Sainsbury’s
Philippe Michel Crémant du Jura, France
A stalwart of the Aldi range, and no wonder. Made entirely from Chardonnay, it’s fresh and zesty, but with a soft-textured mousse.
£7.29, Aldi
Cloudy Bay Pelorus Brut, New Zealand
New Zealand’s answer to Champagne – made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the same way as the French original. Looks and tastes better than many of the cheapest Champagnes.
£17.98 in any 6-bottle mix, £26.99, Majestic; £19.95, Tanners Wines; £19.99, Virgin Wines