Have you ever heard of Ribera del Duero? This is a wine made in Spain which outclasses Rioja. It is made with the same grape as Rioja (tempranillo) but it grown under more extreme climatic conditions (hot days and cold nights). They call it the 'Fuego y Hielo' (Fire and Ice) effect, and it produces a much more meaty, jammy wine. Definitely Spain's best-kept secret! Also try Australia's Yellow Tail range (available in most UK supermarkets). The Merlot and the Shiraz are just divine.