‘Just checking you’re ok…not seen you on social media for a bit?’ went the first message from a friend. ‘Are you away on hols?’ went another. Sadly I wasn’t sitting on my own private island with a cocktail in one hand, book in the other (would have posted that, obviously). But I did go dark for a bit because for the first time for a long time I was, quite literally, out of words. Almost two years after I started writing it, I’ve finally finished my first fiction book. As ever, you’ll be the first to know what happens next. In the meantime, back to booze and this week’s recommendations include the descriptions ‘delicious’ and ‘great value’. Quite my favourite words when it comes to wine.

Current white in the fridge: Chardonnay Lobetia

Price: £9.75 - Buy From Ocado

Gorgeous white made from organically grown Chardonnay grapes in Spain’s La Mancha region, the producer is biodynamic (think organic but with added cosmic stardust). And the result is star bright, fresh with a bowlful of tropical fruit flavours. Refreshing, great value, delicious. Serve with olives on the side.

Current red in the rack: Campos de Solano Malbec Tannat

Price: £7.33 - Buy From M&S

Talk about off the beaten track: this one’s from Bolivia. Well, M&S. But they got it from Bolivia. Compared with Chile and Argentina, Bolivia is tiny in winemaking terms but if this is a taste of what’s to come, I’m in. Normally £11 but currently on offer, it’s made from a blend of juicy Merlot with the more tannic Tannat grape. Together they’re hashtag couple goals, working brilliantly together. Just add stew.