Pick-me-up wines

White

White

Chateau de Gourgazaud Chardonnay, Vin de Pays d'Oc, 1997 (Dunnes Stores and many independent off-licences, £5.99£6.50). A harmonious, stylish Chardonnay from the south of France - hints of Golden Delicious apples cooked in butter may make you reach for an apple Danish, but it goes well with a whole array of light foods.

Red

Domaine Filliatreau Saumur-Champigny 1996 (Searsons £9.95, also Grapes of Mirth Rathmines, DeVine Wine Shop Castleknock). A really mouthwatering red, light enough not to put the guests to sleep and fruity enough to serve cool. Zingy crushed raspberry flavours, mixed with a big handful of herbs and a little puff of smoke.