Domaine Soumade Merlot 2004
This smooth Merlot is from France’s Rhone region, which is better known for its Syrah, Grenache, and Cinsault than its Merlot. But it’s got plenty of red fruit and oakiness in the bouquet and on the palate which comes from half the fruit spending 18 month

Las Lomas Equality Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
If you’re a conscientious wine drinker (or rather a wine drinker with a conscience) then this Chilean Cab Sav is for you. The co-operative that produces this wine receive a guaranteed fair and stable price plus a premium that goes towards projects in the local community. The wine itself is powerful and fruity with a plummy flavour on the palate.

Agaliu 2004
The highly distinctive blue bottle and labeling is an indication that this white from the Costers Del Segre wine region in Catalonia is something a little different. It’s 100% Macabeo and similar to Chardonnay in style, although that doesn’t really do this wine justice. It’s produced by the L’Olivera Co-operative with a production of just 7,000 bottles and exceptionally low sugar content.

Ermita De San Felices 2003
This Rioja Crianza from the Santiago Ijalba bodega near Haro is midway in style between classic old-school Rioja and the more modern new wave. Aged in American oak for 14 months, it’s fruity, full-bodied and easy to drink. Concentrated red fruits and vanilla on the nose, it’s a good match with red meats and risotto.