A real classic is St Emillion from the Bordeaux region of France. It is not syrupy or heavy like some of the new world wines can be. A slightly cheaper version is one called Cotes de Castillon - it is only a few miles from St Emillion but because it lies just outside this appellation it is a bit cheaper but with all the charm of its neighbour. A good bottle will set you back about £7 or £8. Ideal for Sunday lunch!

Crikey, that's a tough one! Beef and red wine are made for each other and any number would do. Depends also on your budget. I've had two contrasting Pinot Noirs recently (one Old World and one New) with a rib of beef and both were spot on: the soft, faintly spicy and gamey 2005 Domaine Chevalier Aloxe Corton (£18.99 at Majestic) and the vibrant and juicy 2006 Pirie 'South' Pinot Noir (£9.99 also Majestic). If you want something more gutsy and robust I strongly recommend some Argentinean Malbec. Noel Young Wines (01223 566744 & www.nywines.co.uk) have three 2005 Trapiche Malbecs all from different single vineyards for £19.50 a bottle. They are big, gutsy, smooth and chocolatey. Great stuff!