Bay of Fires 2002 Arras

This is arguably Australia's finest sparkling wine, a complex, nutty and mature bubbly that oozes class and finishes with a lovely crisp acidity. You won't do better over the holiday period than this intense blend of chardonnay and pinot noir. $60.

Pfeiffer 2007 Ensemble

What a great picnic wine! This rosé-style blend from north-east Victoria offers sweet berry fruit flavours with just a hint of spice, and a crisp, clean finish. A wine for enjoying well-chilled on a warm day, or with a Lebanese banquet. $14.

Tim Adams 2006 Botrytis Affected Riesling

Clare Valley winemaker Tim Adams is a master of making dry rieslings and this proves he's no slouch with dessert styles either. It has pronounced fruit sweetness along with some delicious floral and lemon/lime characters and a nice acid finish. $20.

Brokenwood 2007 Semillon

The 2007 semillons from the Hunter Valley were of stellar quality and this is one of the best - fresh, lively and citrusy with delightful balance and structure, finishing dry on the palate. Given time in the bottle it will develop toasty characters. $19.

Cape Mentelle 2005 Cabernet Merlot "Trinders"

A recent visit to Cape Mentelle underlined the high quality across the range. This is the style of wine every household needs a case of; it has wonderful balance, and is an atypical Australian red given its softness and elegance. Wonderful drinking. $30.

Shingleback D Block 2004 Reserve Shiraz

John Davey handcrafts his wines from vine to bottle. He describes himself as a "minimalist winemaker" who treats wines gently from fermentation to aging. This is a big, bold and beautiful red with power and concentration. $59.95.