Wine Box: Something different

Isn't it odd that we British are hallmarked as adventurers and innovators, yet we are notoriously unexperimental with wine?

Sure, we are confronted with shelf after shelf of some very good wines - but many of us end up choosing branded, advertised wines at unremarkable prices and then drink them into oblivion. There are hundreds of wines waiting in the wings for a moment in the spotlight, so why not go exploring? These might be a useful starting point:

Marquis de Murrieta 'Capellania' 1996 (Safeway's fine wine stores, £8.99). This is one of Spain's bigger whites - full of oak, spice and rich, overripe peaches. Fermented in oak for 40 months, it's not such a surprise it's so hefty. Worth tracking down. Bring on the tapas.

Domaine Pierre Gaillard St Joseph 2000 (Berry Bros & Rudd, 0870 900 4300, £12.95). Brimming with white peach, apricot, herb tea and citrus aromas, this white Rh?ne, made from 100 per cent Roussanne grapes, is a belting summer choice. Drink young with langoustine or crab.

Domaine Pech Pouill? S?lection Revel, Vin de Pays des Coteaux de Peyriac 2001 (Laithwaites, 0870 444 8383, £5.99). Powerful ripe fruit and wafts of spice, herbs and cooked cheese make this Minervois red a serious wine for the money. Ideal with roasts or cassoulet.

Previously on Wine Box