We learn a lot as we become adults, like how to keep a plant/pet/child alive for longer than a couple of hours and how to cook a meal that involves vegetables (and is actually edible). But for most of us there seems to be one major lesson that we never get taught: which bottle of wine is a good bottle of wine?
When a Lambrusco (or Blue Nun if you were feeling really fancy) was once all you needed to get a party going, apparently wine is now supposed to do more than just act as a mild paint stripper. Today our palettes might have grown bigger, but that doesn't necessarily mean our booze budget has, so how are we supposed to choose wine which tastes good and doesn't cost as much as a small house?
Fear not, we've trawled the tasting notes of one of the world's greatest wine experts and found the pick of the bunch that you can buy right now, all for under £20.
White
Chapel Down Flint Dry 2014
We have had it explained to us (on several occasions) that dry means the opposite of sweet, so if you're looking for a wine to go with dinner (especially chicken or seafood), this delicious, dry white is perfect.
Try this English wine alongside Cornish mussels or Jersey Royals and feel the satisfaction that comes from a super low carbon footprint.
Rosé
Domaine de Sainte Rose, Coquille d'Oc Rosé 2014
On the rare days when the British sun shines, we hope it's not just us who want to reach for the rosé. This bright, light French blend of Syrah and Grenache grapes ideally brings together sweetness and acidity.
Pack this in a picnic hamper or save it for the perfect end to a long summer's day.
Red
Aemilia Shiraz Vranec Petit Verdot 2015
This Macedonian red may be at the top of your budget, but believe us, it gives you a lot of bang for your buck. Bring this along to the biggest wine snob's dinner party and let the praise roll over you for your inside knowledge.
Or keep it for yourself and serve with red meat or roasted vegetable; after all, who likes to share?
Sparkling
Freixenet Cordon Negro Brut Cava
Wine isn't immune from hype, which means that good Cava is often seriously underpriced in comparison to Champagne and even Prosecco. This is a perfect example; a delicious bottle of fresh, dry, clean bubbles that packs a punch far above its price.
Pop this bottle to celebrate a big occasion or just, you know, Tuesday?
White
Catena Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2014
If you ever meet someone who has made a sexist joke about women only drinking bland Chardonnay, throw a glass of this bold, full-flavoured, Argentinian white over them. In fact, don't; this wine is too good to waste for that.
Rich with tropical fruit, serve on its own or with snacks. Snacks are always a good idea.
Rosé
Miravbeau Pure Provence Rosé 2015
We know you should never judge a wine by its bottle, but Mirabeau's decision to ditch a label in favour of engraving their name directly on the bottle earns them some serious design points. The wine inside lives up to the outside, with a satin textured finish and strawberry notes.
Uncork whenever and wherever, this wine is great for all occasions.
Red
Valderroa Mencia 2012
This handpicked, Spanish red gives a smoky blend to the flavours of cherry and blackberry. The very slight peppery finish makes it perfect alongside a barbecue.
Serve with grilled meat, outside at a barbecue, or (more likely) while hiding inside from the rain.
Sparkling
Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Brut
Feel the freshness of summer with the fizz of this New Zealand sparkler. This creamy, easy to drink fizz might just go down a little too easily this summer. Maybe you should stock up?
Try this with strawberries and cream.
White
Domaine Parisse Pouilly-Vinzelles 2012
If you're going to spend this much on a bottle of wine it should be good, and this bottle is really good. Ripe and tangy, this French wine is at its perfect drinking age so shouldn't be allowed to hang around for too long.
Ideal for an intimate dinner where you can savour it to the fullest.
Rosé
Miraval Rosé 2014
From the vineyard of Angelina Jolie-Pitt and Brad Pitt, we bring you a really tasty bottle of wine. This modern, fresh rosé is an invigorating addition to any wine rack.
Enjoy while watching Mr & Mrs Smith, and remember without the film, this wine wouldn't be here (the tragedy).
Red
Clos de Los Siete 2012
The refreshing nature of this red makes it perfect for summer, when we aren't looking for something to keep us warm on cold nights. The blend of dark fruits in this wine will keep you coming back for more.
Try this alongside slow cooked, southern style barbecue, or rich, complex dishes.
Sparkling
Albert Bichot Cremant de Bourgogne Reserve Privee
We think it was Tom Haverford who said it best when he said: "Treat yo self!" What better treat could there be than this special private reserve crémant? Sweet with tones of honey and full of flavour from the notes of toasted hazelnuts, this is really a special treat.
Drink with people you really like; only they deserve wine this good.
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