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.

Renowned French winemaker Gérard Bertrand makes his £40+ a bottle Corbières in craggy Boutenac. Just across a small country road is the village of Fabrezan and its equally amazing vineyards. It's where, in fact, Tony Laithwaite bought his first Corbières shipment back in 1971. Today young couple Amelie and Jean-Baptiste work tirelessly, in evenings and weekends (after their day jobs as consultant winemakers), tending their ancient vines and making their cru quality Corbières.

The vines were planted by J-B's great grandfather, a cellar built by his son, but more recently the grapes were all sold to the local coop. J-B and Amelie took over in 2007 and decided they could make something much better. This fabulous Grand Cru style is the result.

Provence is France’s premier rosé region and Domaine de Paris is one of its most stylish and elegant. A previous vintage even gained mention in the prestigious US journal Wine Spectator: “Very good – a wine with special qualities. Dry and refined, with dried berry and cherry flavors and plenty of minerally notes.” The estate has been owned since 1900 by three generations of the Brun family.

50 year old Syrah and Grenache vines produce fruit of superb concentration and impeccable purity. There’s a tantalising steeliness to the structure, a flinty backbone coupled with wild strawberries and a lovely savoury note. Fine Provence rosé is not just for summer! The locals enjoy it all year round, on its own or with seafood, chicken or ratatouille.