Sauvignon Blanc is a dry, crisp white grape originally from France and now famous worldwide, particularly in New Zealand. Expect lime, grapefruit and gooseberry with fresh herbs and tropical fruit depending on where it’s grown. Zesty and refreshing, it’s brilliant with seafood, goat’s cheese, sushi, salads, asparagus and herby chicken dishes.

Müller-Thurgau is a light, aromatic white grape best known from Germany, producing fresh wines that range from dry to slightly sweet. Expect green apple, pear and peach with citrus and delicate floral notes. Soft, easy-drinking and refreshing, it’s brilliant with grilled fish, prawns, roast chicken, salads, sushi and light Asian dishes.

Merlot is a dry, medium to full-bodied red originally from Bordeaux, France, and now grown all over the world. Expect juicy plum, black cherry and blackberry with herbs, chocolate and gentle spice. Smooth and approachable, it’s brilliant with roast beef, burgers, roast chicken, pork, lasagne, bolognese and mushroom dishes.

Gutedel is a dry, light-bodied white best known from Germany and Switzerland, where it’s called Chasselas. Expect green apple, pear and lemon with delicate floral notes and a fresh mineral edge. Subtle, clean and easy-drinking, it’s brilliant with grilled fish, prawns, salads, roast chicken, asparagus and mild cheese.

Gamay is a dry, light-bodied red grape best known from Beaujolais in France, packed with juicy cherry, raspberry and strawberry alongside floral notes and gentle spice. Fresh, fruity and low in tannins, it’s brilliant with roast chicken, pork, charcuterie, pizza, sausages and mushroom dishes – and it’s delicious slightly chilled.

Chardonnay is a dry white grape originally from Burgundy, France, and now grown virtually everywhere wine is made. Its style ranges from crisp lemon and green apple to rich peach, butter, vanilla and toast. Ridiculously versatile, it’s brilliant with seafood, roast chicken, creamy pasta, salmon, mushroom dishes and soft cheese.