The Independent On Sunday

RICHARD EHRLICH is adamant: 'The term "good, low-priced sweet wine" is almost as great a contradiction in terms as "President Bush's left-wing advisers". It just never happens.' And this, he explains, is largely because 'the grapes have to be individually selected followed by hand-sorting at the winery'. However, if you can't afford to spend 250+ for a bottle of Chteau d'Yquem, Ehrlich recommends 'three Waitrose sweeties', such as 2002 Chteau Jolys Cuve Jean, Juranon (9.99/50cl). Or for those who are feeling lucky, Ehrlich suggests trying out an offer from Lay & Wheeler: buy an unmixed case of wine for a chance to buy a bottle of 1990 Yquem for 25. 'Think of it as a win-win bet,' he says. 'If you don't win the Yquem, you've still got 12 good bottles. And if you do win well, I'm free for dinner on whatever night you plan to drink it.' Plenty to play for then.