Cantaro Vermentino 2013, £8, Asda

Tuscany is the home of the first of two Italian wines that are pleasantly different from the country’s most famous products.

Vermentino is a white grape most commonly found in Corsica and Sardinia but also spreading northwards. It’s fresh, light (just 12% alcohol), with pear and peach flavours and a zesty feel. The price is good too.

Stemmari Pinot Noir 2012, £7.99, Waitrose

At the toe of Italy lies Sicily which produces some superb whites but here’s a red well worth trying.

Pinot Noir usually likes a cooler climate than what you'd expect on the south of the island but the soft, smooth raspberry flavours are lovely and it’s cheaper than you’ll get from France. Alcohol is 13.5% and the makers have sustainable farming credentials.