Languedoc

and fresh grassy aromas of this grape. If New Zealand Sauvignon is sometimes a little too bright and fruity, then try a Loire Sauvignon for more subdued, softer flavours. Head to Morrisons for the grapefruit and peach notes in the Best Touraine Sauvignon Blanc (£7.75) or try Waitrose for Touraine Attitude 2019 from Pascal Jolivet, (down from £12.99 to £9.74 until September 22). This is vibrant with lemon and lime flavours, with a streak of minerals and a crunchy bite on the finish. If you have oysters or prawns on your plate then this is the wine to pour alongside.

The Loire is also home to some terrific reds. Bourgueil and Chinon stand on opposite sides of the river, each famous for their reds. Cabernet Franc is the grape here, its leafy green tones adding interest and freshness to deep cassis fruit. Head to the Wine Society for St Nicolas de Bourgueil Les Rouillères from Domaine Frédéric Mabileau 2017 (£14.50) or try the silky bramble and black cherry flavours of Chinon from Serge and Bruno Sourdais (Harrogate Wines, £13.99).

This long sweep of coastline and hills between Spain and Provence acts as a magnet for many British tourists. The weather is good, the villages are beautiful and there are vineyards and restaurants in abundance. Head to the wines of Paul Mas, run by Jean-Claude Mas who works across the whole of the Languedoc, bringing together the classic tastes of the region. Waitrose has the crisp, fragrant Paul Mas Viognier/Sauvignon blend 2019, currently down from £8.99 to £6.74. Chill this down and imagine you are in the region, perhaps eating at the excellent Paul Mas restaurant in Montagnac. Alternatively, head to Morrisons for a selection of wines from Gérard Bertrand, another star winemaker of the Languedoc. It has Les Aspres 2018, a rich, tasty blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah at £10, and on a multi-buy offer of three for two until Tuesday.

With a glass of wine in your hand and a little imagination you can think yourself into the holiday you might have had, and maybe start planning next year’s escape.