Last updated 05:13, Friday, 07 November 2008

I stumbled across a staggering statistic this week. Two-thirds of all wine purchased in the UK is sold on special offer.

Perhaps it’s not so surprising. Observe the wine aisles at any supermarket and you’ll see bargain-hunters scanning the shelves for reductions.

Sadly, not all these offers are what they’re cracked up to be.

Many wines are initially listed at an inflated price so they can then be “reduced” pretty much permanently.

Consumers think they’re getting a bargain when in fact they’re being conned.

Majestic is an honourable exception to this scam.

It always has a vast number of genuine reductions right across the store.

The only drawback is that you must buy by the case, although it can be mixed.

Current offers include 20 per cent off all Chilean wines when you buy two – look out for the excellent Cono Sur and Montes Alpha wines.

The 20 per cent off for any two deal also applies to New Zealand.

My pick would be Jackson Estate Sauvignon Blanc at £7.99 and Cloudy Bay Chardonnay at £15.99.

The Carlisle Majestic in Kingstown Road is hosting a tasting on Tuesday evening. To book a place call 01228 593238.