WITH the VAT increase, inflation and more economic bad news, 2011 has started in a rather penny pinching fashion for many of us. But with a bit of savvy know-how you can still pick up a top bottle or two without blowing the budget.

Here are some of the Daily Echo’s favourites for under £6.

Grand Héron, Marc Ducournau 2009 £5.99 down to £5.49 when you buy 2 or more, Majestic

A lively white from the Gascony region of France brimming with delicious and ripe citrus fruit flavours. Made from two indigenous grape varieties to the region which give it a zesty backbone of acidity. A real New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc beater at almost half the price.

Gascogne Cuvée Spéciale red 2009 £5.49 M&S

A ripe and fruity red, like before, hailing from the Gascony region proving that they are just as proficient at making reds as they are with their zippy whites. Made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and the local Tannat. Full of ripe blackberry fruit flavours and spicy nuances. Completely unoaked and a great accompaniment to grilled lamb chops.

Castillo de Andaluz Tempranillo Syrah 2009 £4.99 Oddbins

A supremely priced Spanish red from La Mancha weighing in at under £5 that oozes drinkability. Bright purple and ruby in colour and juicy on the nose that follows through with mouthfuls of cherry and raspberry fruit flavours with well rounded and ripe tannins. Lip-smacking stuff.

Réserve de la Perrière Corbières 2009 £4.74 Waitrose Wine

This French red made from a traditional blend of Carignan, Grenache and Syrah is full with masses of flavour that punch well above its modest price tag. Fragrant on the nose with lovely brambly fruit on the palate and a slight savoury feeling on the finish. Superb with a meaty pizza or ratatouille.