It's made at an ancient monastery-turned-winery on the famous Camino de Santiago - the pilgrim's way. Dark, smoky berry with toasty oak.

Right in the shadow of neighbouring Rioja, Navarra is a much neglected region. But for those in the know, it "produces wines in many cases that are superior to its more famous neighbour" (The Times). This cracking Crianza is from the Irache monastery, founded centuries back by the King of Spain as a hospital to tend pilgrims on the dusty Camino de Santiago trail.

The monks today have gone and instead, behind the thick walls, is an impressive winery. There, pilgrims are still revived the ancient way with a scallop shell of wine from the famous fountain. They don't, however, get the good stuff - the Fuente de Irache Crianza. That is prized by the locals and has to be purchased! And, just for the first time, it's escaped the borders of Spain.

An elite red with all the pedigree of the world’s finest wines. Think the great reds of Bordeaux, but richer and denser – swirling with dark fruits and seductive spices. Flavours that linger well after you’ve put down the glass. So where’s this stunning red from? France? Italy? Spain? No, it’s Lebanon. Called “the wine world’s best-kept secret” by Master of Wine Tim Atkin, this country has been making fine wines for thousands of years.

Not to mention, Ixsir winery is one of Lebanon’s best. No surprise really, considering the legend who works for them. Hubert de Boüard is the winemaker behind Saint-Émilion’s £250-a-bottle Château Angélus. At a much kinder price this sophisticated, spicy red is a special treat that's hard to put down.

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.