Gavi Le Lune, Marchese di Barolo 2003/2004 and Conde de Valdemar Rioja Crianza, Martinez Bujanda 2001.
Gavi Le Lune, Marchese di Barolo 2003/2004. From a tiny region north of Genoa, in Piedmont, the wines of Gavi - delicate dry whites made from the Cortese grape - are usually expensive. At its normal price, this crisp version is great value in both of the vintages on offer; at the sale price a steal. With hints of crunchy green apples, a citrus tang and yeasty freshness, it's light and reviving - the perfect spring-into-summer white for salads or light fish dishes. Serve cool but not freezing. From Dunnes Stores, down from €9.99 to €8.99 in Italian Wine Sale running until May 11th.
Conde de Valdemar Rioja Crianza, Martinez Bujanda 2001. What a wide price band! The first two stockists listed offer outstanding value - but even at a few euro more this well judged, likeable Rioja is worthwhile. Put it in a nice big glass and see how it moves from fragrant plummy fruit to a long, firm, meaty finish. Made for a Sunday roast. From Oddbins; James Nicholson at www.jnwine.com; O'Briens; McCabes, Mount Merrion & Gables, Foxrock; Donnybrook Fair, Donnybrook; EuroSpar, Killiney; Vintage Store, Tullamore; Lynchs, Glanmire and many others, €11.95-€15.95.