Gosh, not many sleeps until the big guy abseils down the chimney. So it's probably a good time to sort out some wine to keep the in-laws happy (or at least anaesthetised) and thereby ensure another incident free festive season.

We've got some crackers this year - if you'll excuse the pun. First and foremost being the 2006 Merlot / Franc, a ripe, soft and just plain yummy little number that is perfect around the barbecue but would happily grace a higher level of haute cuisine.

If you're after a little more bottle age, the 2004 Mt Erin Merlot / Franc is drinking beautifully, but if you are more of a primary fruit junkie and like a bit of power in the glass, try the 2005 Basket Press. It ain't half bad.

And for those hot days when you'd like something chilled but a white won't cut the mustard, we still have a small amount of the excellent 2006 Rose to soothe the tastebuds. All in all, a pretty good line up from three classy vintages.

You can order on-line at www.redmetalvineyards.co.nz and don't forget to put "Xmas mail order" in the special instructions box to get 10% off.

Regards

Grant