Just like each team needs a rock at the back, someone to support the rest. So too, does a wine list. With UK consumers’ thirst for sparkling set to continue until well after the summer, the appearance of Jeio Prosecco is the bedrock of any profitable list.

In terms of reliability there isn’t much else that hits the spot like Australian Shiraz. The Battle of Bosworth has all the sweet, juicy character that consumers expect with an inspiring story of organic farming that they may not.

If there’s a country that has taken the UK by storm then surely it’s Argentina. The unstoppable rise of Malbec and Argentinean flavours has been embraced by one and all and the trade is all the better for it. The ever-reliable Argentinean Malbec is a wine guaranteed to find favour.

There’s still a lot to be said for Californian Syrah. Sideways may have ensured that Pinot Noir is what many people think of when it comes to California but there are a host of world beating styles of red to be discovered. Perfect for those who want the best of both worlds, old and new.

Spanish wine has never been more popular in the trade. Bars across the country are digging out Spanish gems in much the same way that every football team seeks out the next Spanish talent. This isn’t the next big thing, it’s already here.

Everyone needs a French artiste. Delicate and exciting, they are written off at your peril. This Picpoul is a masterstroke in crisp and refreshing wine. The grape has long played second fiddle to established grape varieties such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

Portuguese wine is more than a one trick pony. The unfortified wines are often in the shadow of its more successful neighbour, Spain, but they are just as good and almost always better value. The crisp whites from Vinho Verde are the perfect match for any kind of fish dish, the more grilled the better.

Uruguayans have made a habit of changing people’s minds about them as of late. The wines from Garzon are no different. This Albarino isn’t like any other you’ll have tried. Slightly softer fruit notes make this at home with lighter food but it’s just as good by itself.

England might not be the country that first comes to mind when you think of success on the International stage but as English winemaking gets more plaudits it’s time to take notice. Most similar in style to Chablis but more aromatic, this is a delicate and refreshing white bound to make a lasting impression.

No dream team would be complete without a couple of flashy Brazilians up front. But the Miolo wines aren’t all style and no substance, the family has over one hundred years of winemaking experience behind it. These are seriously good value sparklers that could rival the best of Europe.

Wine lists are a team effort. You can’t just rely on the big names to bring you success. You need a reliable performer that can lift the rest of the squad. Step forward Santorini Assyritiko. This Greek stalwart is incredibly complex with a long aromatic finish. It might not be the most well-known but it’s a wine that would complement any list.