Simonsig Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch 2003 and Chianti Classico Basilica Cafaggio Single Estate 2002
Simonsig Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch 2003: This sunny South African is the perfect winter white. Its ripe, tropical fruit flavours streaked with lemon and honey make for a satisfying mouthful - especially if you don't serve it ice-cold. It suits January budgets, too. Terrific with a mild to medium chicken or vegetable curry. From O'Neills, SCR; Vintry, Rathgar; Nolans, Clontarf; Jus de Vine, Portmarnock; Cheers-Wicklow Arms, Delgany; Dalys, Boyle; Vineyard, Galway; Gaffneys, Ballina & Castlebar, usually €8.99.
Chianti Classico Basilica Cafaggio Single Estate 2002: One problem these days about Tuscany - another wonderful wine region to visit - is that you would have to be a Florentine banker to afford most of the palatable bottles it produces. Not so this smooth but robust Chianti Classico. With smoky, earthy aromas and a refreshing bite in the finish, it is made for M&S by Villa Cafaggio, an estate whose own label Chianti, costing €6-€7 more, has also been recommended in this column. A stew with garlic and thyme is the thing to set it off. From Marks & Spencer, €13.