Tuscanys signature red grape, at home in the in the warm Tuscan climate, & here with the expertise of Banfis winemaking, Sangiovese really shows its varietal character. Well-defined notes of liquorice & cedar on the nose are followed by an intense yet medium-bodied palate crammed with flavours of red & black cherries. Classic tomato-based Italian dishes rarely go better with anything else! ...

The second wine of Croix de Gay, this is an early-to-mature, friendly Pomerol, offering plump plum & raspberry fruit & low acidity. With its soft oaky spice & notes of earth & forest floor, it is nicely mature & drinking well, from now until 2017. ...

Alejandro Sejanovich is one of Argentina's most knowledgeable winemakers. Tim Atkin MW named him as one of his top 10 winemakers from South America in 2019. He worked as vineyard director at Bodega Catena Zapata for 16 years, where he pioneered the art of high-altitude vineyards. He creates this Chardonnay in the dizzying Los Arboles district. & his expertise really shows in its notes of peach, apricot & tropical fruits. Try it with a vegetable terrine. ...

Alejandro Sejanovich is one of Argentina's most knowledgeable winemakers. Tim Atkin MW named him as one of his top 10 winemakers from South America in 2019. He worked as vineyard director at Bodega Catena Zapata for 16 years, where he pioneered the art of high-altitude vineyards. Expect a bold Malbec with lush dark fruit & black pepper notes. Enjoy with pan-seared steak. ...

This old (pasada) Manzanilla comes from the heralded Hidalgo family where it is blended by the head 'capitaz' Antonio Sanchez. To acquire such knowledge as a capitaz requires a lifetime of dedication, as they must be familiar with the taste of every cask in the Bodega. An intense nose of apple skins & nuts leads on to a palate characterised by classic notes of almonds, orange peel & a salty twang. A prolonged finish marks this out as a wine of real quality. This Manzanilla should be served chilled as a stunning aperitif. ...

Portuguese winemaker Rita Marques met South African Superstar Marc Kent whilst Rita was expanding her horizons by working a vintage at Boekenhoutskloof – the estate behind The Chocolate Block. They enjoyed working together so much that they decided to set up a new venture together in Rita's native Portugal. Companhia de Vinos Invencível was born, & true to its name, the bond has been invincible ever since. A blend of indigenous grapes from vines over 90 years old, this wine celebrates Portuguese tradition & modern winemaking. Expect notes of blossom, zesty lemon & crisp grapefruit. The balance of fresh acidity & hints of oak make it a great match with rich fish dishes or chicken in a creamy sauce. ...

Barolo is widely considered Italy's king of wines. Head to the region, & you'll find the dark depths of Poderi Marcarini's winery. They may not make for an enticing holiday destination, but this wine is protected from light & temperature changes while ageing there. This means it can evolve & mature to its best without disruption, perfecting the powerful aromas & preserving unique flavours. The result is a rich, fresh bouquet of violets & roses & a long, intense finish. ...

When it comes to Piedmont white wine, centuries-old Arneis is a signature grape. The name translates as ‘little rascal’ in local dialect – seemingly named because it’s tricky to grow – & perhaps the reason it almost became extinct. That hasn’t stopped the Marchetti family from carrying on the tradition. Sixth-generation winemaker Elisa Marchetti makes this one in Roero from vineyards 300 metres above sea level. The high altitude & a tank fermentation method helps to preserve the grapes' natural fruity flavour & freshness. Expect fresh peach & floral aromas. A note of crisp green apple will pair brilliantly with roast pork. ...

Marcel Jacquier, a proud Jurassian, was monumental in the development of the Compagnie des Grands Vins de Jura. This organisation led the development of traditional method sparkling wine in Jura. With a goal to showcase the best of his beloved region, he founded the Marcel Cabelier winery in 1995 – & it’s gone from strength to strength ever since. Their vineyards lie in the Franche-Comté area between Burgundy & Switzerl&, where chalky-clay soils are ideal for the production of sparkling wine grapes. The wine is aged on its lees for at least a year, allowing plenty of time for complex flavours & texture to develop. Expect floral notes, ripe citrus flavour & toasty brioche. ...

Marcelo Pelleriti was the first Argentinian winemaker to receive 100 points from legendary wine critic Robert Parker when he worked at Château La violette in Pomerol. He has since brought his talent back to Mendoza, where he made this stunning Malbec exclusively for Majestic customers. It's rich & intense with plum, dried fruit & spicy oak notes, all balanced by fresh acidity on the long finish. Partner with slow-roasted pork. ...