As the nights draw in and we head towards Christmas, many of us find our budgets get a little strained. But a tighter budget doesn’t mean forsaking the odd glass of wine. We tried a small selection of good value autumn wine choices, some of which, as it turns out, are better than others…

CH Pierre Bordeaux
£5.49

If you’re looking for a good-value bottle of Bordeaux to enjoy as the evenings draw in, you won’t go too far wrong with this one. 

Made using a blend of 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc grapes, there are plenty of red and black berries coming through on the nose, and once on the palate the fruits are joined by a subtle spice that brings a hint of warmth, which it takes into a long finish. 

It isn’t quite as full-bodied as you might expect from a Bordeaux, but it pairs well with red meats and cheeses, and for the impressively low price tag, it most certainly holds its own, making it one of our autumn wine choices.

Les Deux Pins Merlot
£7.00

Made with 100% Merlot grapes, this deep, garnet-red wine is packed with punchy dark fruit, with a good dose of vanilla and spice, which enhances the flavours. 

It’s full-bodied and smooth, with a good dose of tannins, which makes it an easy-drinking wine. For some, it could verge on bitterness, but pair it with the right foods (a casual burger or pizza works well), and it works rather nicely. 

A decent Merlot to keep on hand as an everyday wine, but if you’re looking to impress, it might not be quite so high on your wish list.

Autumn wine choices Budget reds

Blue Nun Riesling
£8.49

Relaunched in the UK for 2026, Blue Nun has a more contemporary look for its iconic brand. After more than a century, Blue Nun Riesling is as easy to drink as ever. Made with 100% Riesling grapes grown in the Rheinhessen region of Germany, this vibrant wine is full of crisp, fresh flavours. With notes of apple, peach and a hint of tropical fruits. 

The citrus cuts through to give a fresh, light, clean flavour which works well with fish, chicken or something with a little spice.

Autumn wine choices Blue Nun

Blue Nun Authentic White
£7.50

If you like a sweet wine, Blue Nun Authentic White is much closer to being a dessert wine than a table wine. It’s true to say that tastes were a little different in the 70s and 80s when Blue Nun was at its height of popularity, so this is a wine that will split opinions. 

With white flowers, ripe peach and orchard fruits, there’s plenty of fruit and just a little hint of citrus to add some acidity. 

At 9.5% ABV, it’s light and easy to drink, but if a sweet wine isn’t your thing, pop it over ice and top it with soda water for a fruity, refreshing glass full.

Sam Huff
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