Piccini Chianti Classico Riserva 2009, £11.49, Morrisons

At one time much Italian Chianti sold in Britain was pretty rough stuff with tannins harsh enough to make you wonder if your tooth enamel would dissolve on contact. That’s all changed now and Tuscany’s best is lovely. The Piccini family have been perfecting the black cherry tastes for 130 years.

Tangley Oaks Pinot Noir 2012, £14.99, cellarviewines.com

California doesn’t get too many mentions here because many mass produced supermarket offerings are bland and far too expensive. But this is a good example of what the Golden State does best – velvety Pinot Noir. Almost all the grapes for this one come from ten hectares near Caneros in the famed Napa Valley.

Perlezza Prosecco Brut, £7 from £9, Spar

This Italian fizz is one of a tempting trio from the supermarket, each reduced in price until July 30. Its fellows are Spar Chateauneuf-du-Pape Trois Couronnes, France, £12.50 from £16.29, and Terra Ricca Garganega Pinot Grigio, Italy, £5 from £7.49.