Ayala Brut NV: I have always liked this wine and a tasting of the current offering has confirmed my prejudices. This is a super, easy drinking Champagne with a fine bouquet, and a predominance of Pinot Noir grapes gives it good length.

It is also astounding value in the UK if bought from Majestic Wine Warehouse at only £11.99, if you buy more than one.

Laurent Perrier Rosé This is a great Rosé, although Pommery's Rosé is just as good

Charles Heidsieck Mis En Cave 1995 NV Although this wine is a non-vintage, i.e. a mixture of wines from different years, the date the bottle was cellared is noted. Thus it has the benefit of several more years bottle ageing on its lees than is the 13 month legal minimum.

This, together with the expert blending of top cellarmaster Daniel Thibault, results in a superb drink with many of the qualities of Champagnes costing two or three times the price.

Even if money was no object, I would not waste it on the so-called Prestige Cuvées like Dom Pérignon and Louis Roederer Cristal. A couple of the best Champagnes around are Bollinger Grand Année 1990 (it's worth looking out for this particular vintage) and the superb Pol Roger Brut 1990