WINTER WHITE WINES

Graham Norton’s Own Sauvignon Blanc 2019, Marlborough, New Zealand, £7, Asda

The popular chat show host’s own labels have won multiple awards, and Norton’s sauvignon blanc channels a vibrant mix of zingy characters. Outrageously good and a wine with lots to say, there’s a riot of passion fruit, kiwi, guava and tropical fruits on the nose, and plenty of juicy, mouth-watering flavours with lovely balance, concentration and an energetic finish.

Bees Knees Chenin Blanc Viognier 2020, Western Cape, South Africa, £10.99, Laithwaite’s

Expect ample apricot and white peach laid over baked apple and citrus flavours, with exotic honeysuckle and spicy accents. Creamy, mouth-watering and there’s more tropical fruit bolstering the lively finish.

Vasse Felix Classic Semillon Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Margaret River, Australia, £12, Tesco

With lovely leafy, grassy aromas and hints of zesty lime, a textured, oily quality gives an added dimension to the ripe kiwi, lemongrass, guava and gooseberry flavours, topped off with a beautiful freshness on the finish. Well-crafted and expressive, enjoy with crab cakes or lemon and garlic roast chicken.

Chateau Ste. Michelle Dr y Riesling 2019, Washington State, USA, £9.99, Waitrose

The sommelier’s favourite white, this ripe style from Washington State’s largest producer and top-rated winery ticks all the right riesling boxes. Refreshingly dry with pretty peach and citrusy, floral aromas, a beam of pure, ripe stone fruit flavours feel invigorating and fresh, with a hint of minerality on the lifted finish. Food-friendly and versatile, this will go great with spicy sausages with sauerkraut, cheese fondue, smoked fish or caramelised onion tart.