Wines of the week: Esk Valley Syrah 2009; Iocalia Vermentino di Sardegna, 2011; Les Jamelles Limited Edition Syrah Grenache 2011

Sunday Lunch

Esk Valley Syrah 2009

Altogether a different beast from Aussie Shiraz, this is a masterclass in New World Syrah from the Hawkes Bay area of New Zealand. Intense violet and black-cherry aromas give way to big flavours of dark fruits, tar, chocolate and pepper on the palate, all balanced and structured without being overwhelming. Will age if you can wait, but fine for drinking now with any roast or grilled meats, particularly chicken. Decant well in advance. £13.99 (£12.37 each for 12-bottle case), cambridgewine.com; £17.25 (£15.53 each for 12-bottle case), jascots.co.uk

Midweek meal

Iocalia Vermentino di Sardegna, 2011

The Vermentino grape is grown mainly in Sardinia and this wine typifies some of the hidden treasures of the Mediterranean islands which do not always make it here. Almost the perfect summer white, it is ideal to wash down some sardines or shellfish, being full of aromatic pear and melon flavours, yet crisply refreshing on the palate. £8.50, thewinesociety.com

Bargain Basement

Les Jamelles Limited Edition Syrah Grenache 2011

Planning a barbecue today or a gathering to coincide with the Euro 2012 final tonight? This is as good a bargain for a party wine as can be found right now: a food-friendly, robust southern French red, full of black fruits and spice with a nice, soft finish. There are also decent Sauvignon Blanc and rosé wines in this series, all reliably made by Languedoc wine-maker specialist Catherine Delaunay. £4.99 (normally £9.99; offer ends Tuesday), Co-op stores