For lovers of Tuscany's ethereal Brunello di Montalcino wines, Rosso di Montalcino is a superb and more affordable alternative. It's wines don't quite last the decades of Brunello, but then sometimes you can't wait that long. This glorious pure Sangiovese is from Giacomo Neri, a winemaker renowned for his remarkable Brunellos, two of which have scored a perfect 100 points. His father founded the estate in 1971, realising the huge potential of the area's soil and climate. He passed the property to his son in 1991, who has taken excellence another step even higher, extending the vineyards, now 63 hectares, and buying up some remarkable single vineyards too. Decant this red an hour before serving with rich red meat dishes.

Oltrepo Pavese lies in southwest Lombardy, next to Piedmont, hence its former name, Old Piedmont. Castello di Cigognola is an impressive, 13th-century castle, lying high on a hill, overlooking the Scuropasso Valley, across to Emilia Romagna. No wonder, then, it was once a stronghold for feudal lords. Over the centuries, it has been a gathering place for politicians and philosophers and today it remains a tranquil spot. It is home to many artistic pursuits, including great wine. Gabriele Moratti is in charge today. Sustainably tended, the vineyards are in the process of organic conversion. Using all Barbera from their 30-year-old La Maga vineyard, the wine had a year's ageing in small barrels. A very fine red. Open early and decant, or age.

Over 170 years of experience have gone into the making of this ripe tangerine and toasted brioche Champagne.

It's the work of 5th-generation winemaker Julian Fourrier, whose father, Philippe, created this special cuvée in honour of his wife, Brigitte. Her maiden name was Delmotte.

The grapes are a classic blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay taken from vineyards first planted by Philippe and Brigitte.

All the family's 18 hectares of vines lie within Champagne's little known Côte des Bar, described by Wine Folly as "the hottest Champagne region right now".

Made traditionally, this fine fizz was aged four years on its lees to enhance its rich toasty flavour.

Presented in a handy half bottle - perfect as a celebratory bottle for two!

Over 170 years of experience have gone into the making of this ripe orange-scented toasted brioche Champagne.

It's the work of 5th generation winemaker Julian Fourrier, whose father, Philippe, created this special cuvée in honour of his wife, Brigitte. Her maiden name was Delmotte.

The grapes are a classic blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay taken from vineyards first planted by Philippe and Brigitte.

All the family's 18 hectares of vines lie within Champagne's little known Côte des Bar, described by Wine Folly as "the hottest Champagne region right now".

Made traditionally, this fine fizz was aged four years on its lees to enhance its rich toasty flavour.

This handy half bottle is perfect to share between two - a small celebration!

Ernest Rapeneau founded his Champagne house in 1901 in the village of Hautvillers. Over the next 50 years, he built an excellent reputation for his business, broadened his range and extended his distribution network. But first and foremost Ernest was a lover of Champagne, never losing his passion. For four generations, the aim has been to both preserve and improve the House’s traditional heritage.

These days Christophe is head of the business – a leading master in his discipline with more than 30 grape harvests under his belt. This Brut is a classic Champagne blend of complex, structured Pinot Noir, fruity Meunier and citrusy, elegant Chardonnay. It’s lively with fresh citrus and mineral aromas and hints of brioche. Great for celebration.

Its vineyards are nearly all planted to Merlot, with a small amount of Cabernet Franc, and tended with meticulous care. As you can see from critics' scores, it is an admired claret and one that ages very well too. Matured in French oak (50% new), it has structure and length, but above all an appealing depth of luscious fruit and spice – like Christmas in a glass! It’s a luxurious sipper, ideal with cheese after the Christmas feast. “Spiced plums and cocoa-dusted blueberries ... Succulent" (James Suckling, 94pts)