With Gold medals galore, Thierry Ferlay has made wine all over the world but remains fondest of the warm, ripe reds of the southern Rhône. He also adores their chief grape, Grenache – the most important variety in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. In fact he’s in charge of winemaking at this renowned appellation’s only co-operative winery, where all the growers are part-owners of the enterprise. Naturally, maximising quality is at the forefront of their minds, which explains this wine’s exceptional flavour and value.

Made purely from Grenache, it has irresistible raspberry fruit, hints of spice and a peppery edge. Enjoy with ratatouille, lamb chops and homemade burgers. And because it’s so smooth and not too heavy, it’s ideal sipping on its own, too.

You’ll find no end of acclaim for the fine reds of Domaine de Mourchon. Master of Wine Jancis Robinson puts their wines “amongst the most interesting 5% of wine made today”. Top US publication, the Wine Advocate, who awarded their 2017 Côtes du Rhône Villages Tradition a glowing 90-92 point score, is even more effusive: “full-bodied, creamy and lush in the mouth, yet it remains lively, energetic and long on the finish," adding "These splendid cuvées are all worth buying by the caseload.”

It’s crafted by expert winemaker Sébastien Magnouac. He uses only the ripest fruit picked from old vines and his best oak barrels for ageing. A sumptuous, velvety red with dark fruit richness to partner with lamb or a hearty, herb-laden casserole.

Vines have been planted in this very southerly part of the Rhône since Roman times. They certainly knew a thing or two about making wine, so it’s safe to bet that this terroir is spot on for great wine! Typically, when you think of the Rhône you think of Syrah and Grenache. But award-winning winemaker Thierry Ferlay has shown that, in fact, Bordeaux's Merlot ripens perfectly in his local vineyards, not far from Châteauneuf.

Using old-vine fruit for extra intensity, he has created a silky red with plum and blackberry notes and a hint of pepper and liquorice. Easy going and fruity, it makes a delicious glassful on its own as well as a great stand by for mid-week suppers from sausages to shepherd's pie. A top choice for a barbecue too.