You don’t have to spend a lot to drink good wine

It is not always necessary to spend a lot of money to drink good wine. Here are four great value wines for less than €15. I have selected wines that should be widely available, including one from independent wine shops and off-licences. Personal finances are tight for many of us, but once you spend more than €10 on a bottle of wine, the quality increases exponentially.

Dunnes Stores is offering 20 per cent off all of its French wines until October 9th. The O’Briens September wine sale runs until October 24th. As well as the Soave featured here, the light, refreshing Muscadet Domaine de la Chauvinière (€11.95 down from €14.95), the fruity Château Bentejac (€9.95 down from €19.95) and the rich full-bodied L’Ostal Estibals (€13.95, down from €17.95) all offer sound value for money. It doesn’t fit into the sub-€15 category, but the Domaine Begude Etoile (€19.95 down from €22.95) is an outstanding wine at a very keen price.

In addition to the wine featured here, Supervalu has the Goichot Chablis at a very competitive €16, as well as Château Lacombe Cadiot (€13) and Saint-Joseph (€15), both offering great value for money.

It is not often that you come across a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru for less than €15. The Billeron Bouquey featured here may not be easy to pronounce, but it offers good value for money. Aldi has been selling this for several years now as part of its core range.

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Goichot Saint Bris 2022

12.5%, €10 (down from €18)

Something of a rarity, this sauvignon from Burgundy has leafy aromas, orange peel, mango fruits and a lively acidity. Perfect as an aperitif or with fresh, creamy goat’s cheese salads.

From SuperValu

Mucchietto Soave 2022, Organic

12.5%, €12.95 (down from €16.95)

White flower aromas, rich pear and melon fruits with a cool refreshing finish. This would make a nice aperitif, or try it with grilled sea bass or creamy cheese salads.

From O’Briens

Chateau Billeron Bouquey 2020, Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

14%, €14.99

A medium-bodied Bordeaux with ample damson plum fruits, light tannins and a dry finish. This would go nicely with lightly-spiced grilled lamb or roast mushrooms.

From Aldi

Portillo Malbec, Uco Valley, Argentina

13%, €14-€14.99

A medium-bodied wine with violet and black fruit aromas, rich blackcurrants and loganberry fruits with subtle spice. Perfect with a steak or dishes featuring grilled red peppers.

From many independent off-licences and wine shops