Frankland Estate 2020 Chardonnay

 

Frankland Estate is one of the leading producers in the remote Great Southern region of Western Australia; with fruit grown with much attention to detail on a Frankland River sheep farming property. The brand is probably best known for its stellar dry rieslings, but this chardonnay is very much in the zone with grapefruit zest fruit notes and subtle oak in complete harmony. Still very youthful, this would pair brilliantly with an old-fashioned roast pork and crackling. Certified organic and vegan friendly. $30. www.franklandestate.com.au 

Tim Adams 2021 Clare Valley Riesling

Meet one of Australia's consistently great wine bargains; the new release of an aromatic and intense Clare Valley riesling that always delivers. The 2020 vintage of this wine sold out quick smart. That's no surprise when the RRP is $24 but the wine can often be found on discount, or online, for around $20. Think enticing delicate floral aromas that are followed by a palate that offers zesty grapefruit, lime and lemon flavours, some textural elements and a crisp, dry finish. Great with Asian dishes or pan-fried seafood or simply as a zingy after-work refresher. $24. www.timadamswines.com.au/

John Duval Wnes 2019 Plexus Red

 

I was all set to write about another John Duval wine - the vibrant 2019 Concillio grenache ($30) - when I tasted this. Both are delicious but this just edged out its stablemate in a photo finish. It is a lip-smackingly good classic Barossa blend of old vine shiraz, grenache and mourvèdre and delivers serious drinking pleasure with a velvety smooth finish and hints of Asian spice. John Duval, for those who do not know, was for many years the winemaker behind Penfolds Grange. Nowadays, he works in his family business making wines in much smaller quantities, and at much more affordable prices. This one will certainly not disappoint. 95 points. $40. www.johnduvalwines.com

Ashton Hills 2020 Estate Pinot Noir

 

From one of the standout producers in the Adelaide Hills comes a stellar new-release estate pinot that is drinking beautifully in its youth but will also cellar well over the next few years. Founding winemaker Stephen George has now handed over the reins to talented Liam van Pelt but keeps a beady eye on proceedings and the quality of the pinots remains stellar. This has undergone partial whole-bunch fermentation to add texture, and the newish French oak plays a key support role to some vibrant berry fruit and black cherry characters. You should pair this with roast Chinese duck for maximum enjoyment. "Yum" and "Perfect for summer" were the reactions of a couple of my tasters. $60. www.ashtonhills.com.au