Robert Stein 2020 Riesling

 

The Stein family is fast approaching its half century of making outstanding wines across a range of styles at Mudgee in the Central West of New South Wales. Third-generation winemaker Jacob Stein is now at the helm and quality continues to soar. The 2020 vintage was hugely difficult given the dreadful drought and bush fires of 2019 and the Covid-19 pandemic. This was handpicked from a vineyard unaffected by smoke taint and the end result is a fresh and lively young wine with a lovely balance. $35. www.robertstein.com.au/

 

Dog Point 2020 Sauvignon Blanc

 

It is not that long ago that Marlborough sauvignon blanc was all the rage. But wine fashion can be fickle and other grape varieties are enjoying their day in the sun. What that means, however, is the best Marlborough savvys offer excellent value for money - and this organically farmed wine always among the very best of the region, vintage after vintage. The recent-release 2020 has power and intensity with classic varietal tropical fruit characters, refreshing acidity and a long finish. Absolutely lovely and a perfect excuse to buck the trend. $30. www.dogpoint.co.nz

Heirloom Vineyards 2018 McLaren Vale Shiraz

 

From the formidable team of wife and husband Elena and Zar Brooks, the Heirloom Vineyards range features grapes from five different regions of South Australia, all sourced from quality sites and clones. This is a bold, expressive McLaren Vale red, slightly less muscular than its Barossa counterpart but equally delicious. Think dark berries, white pepper, chocolate hints and plenty of length and depth of flavour. Unfined and unfiltered; and just a little raffish. $40. https://heirloomvineyards.com.au/