Barbecues are deceptively hard work.

There’s the worrying about the weather, the quandary over who to invite, the panic about your guests leaving with a severe case of salmonella – and then the terrible etiquette of who gets to eat what.

Luckily, drinks are easier to sort out. The days of turning up to a party with a bag-in-a-box are (hopefully) over, but there are still plenty of good barbecue bargains out there.

Kick things off with a bright white: Errazuriz Estate Chardonnay 2008 (RRP £7.99 at Sainsbury’s, Majestic and Oddbins, but look out for special offers) is a lush, mouth-filling wine.

Those hovering over the hot plate (you know the ones – they’re prone to disappearing when it comes to cleaning up) should keep hydrated with the classy Spanish beer, Alhambra Reserva 1925. This additive-free beer should stop any arguments from breaking out, but warn the cook that it’s 6.6 per cent ABV. It’s available from thedrinkshop.com, £34.35 for 24 330ml bottles.

When the bangers and burgers are cooked, settle down with some warming reds.

Duo Mythique Syrah Grenache 2006, from the Languedoc, has intense blackcurrant flavours and a soft finish. It’s also wallet-friendly at just £4.99 from the Co-op.

If you’ve got a little more cash to splash, McGuigan Classic Grey Label Merlot 2007 (£6.99 at Majestic) is a little Aussie battler with a lot of style.

Lastly, I’ve not been to many barbecues where the finest French Champagne has been on offer, but it might be a bit more likely considering that Taittinger Brut NV is on special at Tesco – down to £26.90 (usually £33.90) until August 18. Who needs sausages anyway?

DRINK THIS:It’s not strictly a wine for barbecues, but this is too delicious to pass up. Rain or shine, treat yourself to Villa Maria Private Bin Riesling 2008 (rrp £7.99, Threshers, Wine Rack, Majestic, Waitrose) – which proves there’s more to New Zealand’s Marlborough region than just sauvignon blanc.

This zesty wine is a great accompaniment to summer salads and would go down a treat with grilled chicken or fish.