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A welcome dose of escapism. Our island wines celebrate places shaped by the sea, bringing far-flung shores to your glass. Expect the unmistakable influence of maritime climates, distinctive soils, and native grape varieties that thrive in these unique landscapes. From Santorini to Sardinia and Sicily, these bottles prove that some of the world's most compelling wines are found beyond the mainland.

Most of us take pleasure in the ritual of uncorking a bottle, but there are plenty of occasions when the convenience of a screwcap wins out: picnics at the beach, open air concerts or a day at the cricket. And make no mistake, there’s no shortage of brilliant, age-worthy wines bottled under screwcap, especially from Australia and New Zealand but also the Loire, Italy and elsewhere.

Chillable reds are bang on trend. They’re a great option in the summer months, but can serve a purpose year round, as an accompaniment to fish or spicey dishes. Beaujolais is a tried and tested source, as is the Loire, but Dolcetto from Piedmont and ethereal Garnacha, Grenache or Cannonau (as its known in Sardinia) also fit the bill. They tend to be best enjoyed at "cellar temperature" rather than ice cold.

The world of wine can seem almost endlessly varied – not least when it comes to grape varieties. Champagne has just three principal varieties, but did you know there are a further five permitted, including the seldom seen Arbane and Petit Meslier? Here we celebrate a host of grapes that may have escaped your attention but which, in the right hands, can result in wines of real character and class.