An easy-to-use guide for selecting a French wine that suits your taste.

So, you think you’re hot stuff eh? Popping into your local wine shop and picking up a couple of bottles of Shiraz, a litre of Chardonnay and then feeling a pang of disappointment to find your favourite Californian cab is out of stock.

The relative ease of navigating through new world wines (basically from anywhere other than Europe) has made wine accessible to the masses. If you know what grape varietals you like you can browse through selections from Australia, Chile, South Africa, the U.S., and of course Canada, to find what you’re looking for — a big Cabernet Sauvignon to go with your steak dinner or a refreshing Riesling to sip on the patio on a hot summer afternoon.

A selection of interesting gift ideas for the discerning dad

Father’s Day imparts an unprecedented challenge to consumerism — outdone only by the impossible task of purchasing his birthday present or Christmas gift. Luckily most dads appreciate booze, booze propaganda and boozy-related activities. We’ve scoured the aisles of our favourite booze emporium to bring you a few gift-ideas, from special bottles of cognac and scotch to converting the basement fridge into his very own draft dispenser. We’ve even included a biker-inspired wine tour, all perfect for the discerning dad on your list.

Five essential Sangria recipes — with great additions like frozen grapes, ginger and pear cider — to help quench your summer thirst.

With summer threatening to poke its head out, now’s the time to taste-drive a few summer drinks and find your own signature crowd-pleaser. If you like to entertain, you understand that sometimes your hosting duties can slide a little–after all it’s hard to keep your guests’ glasses topped up when you’re testing the hammock’s swing range. Ease the pressure of summer entertaining by following the three “Ps” of summer service–punch, pitchers and prepare ahead.