It's one of life's little ironies that the month you are most likely to be in need of a glass of wine is also the month you are least likely to be able to afford it.

For many, January and February are by far the most painful bill-paying months. Not only do the biggest heating bills of the year fly effortlessly through the letterbox, but they are joined by our flexible friends demanding pay-back and reminding us just how much we got wrapped up in the festive madness.

Now, more than ever, we judge wines by their price tags seeking that best value bargain bottle. So, the important question at this time is do the bargains, bin-ends and special offers available really represent Value For Money (VFM)?

Obviously, we have different expectations at different prices. We expect a £3-£4 wine to be simple and fruity, but expect greater depth and complexity from a £5-£10 wine.

If the following wines are anything to go by there is still plenty of good value around at a range of prices most can afford. With corkers at £2.99, yes, £2.99 and £3.49, I hope you'll be able to keep your standards up and your expenditure down.

These wines were chosen by local branch managers and staff who clearly know their fruit from their tannins. So don't throw your hard-earned cash at any bottle - ask them for advice.)

To read about Derek's recommendations, check out The Westmorland Gazette, published today (Friday, February 23)