Vasse Felix 2023 Classic Dry Red

 

Looking for an affordable red gem to pair with a barbecue or sausage sizzle? This soft dry red from one of the top producers in Margaret River delivers value with a capital V. Soft and silky, it offers no nonsense medium-bodied pleasure and is perfect for drinking now without too much thought. It is very refreshing and could easily be served lightly chilled on a warm day. Lightness and brightness are the keys here, with red fruit and plummy goodness on the palate. Tangy acid completes the picture in a wine that is completely unoaked. Yummy. $20. https://www.vassefelix.com.au/

Dal Zotto NV Pucino Spritz

 

What a great little summer thirst quencher this is from the Dal Zotto family in the KIng Valley in north-east Victoria. It is a bodacious little bottle of fun made from Dal Zotto's prosecco blended with house-made, ultra citrusy limoncello. Unlike some of its rivals [a couple of which taste like toilet cleaner] this is one of the most refreshing spritzes I've sampled this year with lively grapefruit and lemon citrus notes and a sensible 9% alcohol. This needs to be enjoyed well chilled, or poured over ice, on a warm day watching the cricket. $22. https://www.dalzotto.com.au/

Flametree S.R.S 2024 Karridale Sauvignon Blanc

A sauvignon blanc that defies expectations with a whole lot happening on the palate. Wild fermentation and maturation on yeast lees has given this some savoury elements on the palate, alongside the tropical fruit notes and acid you'd expect from young Margaret River sauvignon blanc. There's some sea shell elements, too, in a white that delivers on texture and complexity along with attractive fruit notes. A definite winner for pairing with pork or chicken dishes and wine that can be enjoyed now, or over the next couple of years. $40. https://www.flametreewines.com/

Oliver's Taranga 2023 Sagrantino

One of an impressive set of new releases from Oliver's Taranga in McLaren Vale, this is made from a relatively obscure grape that originates in Umbria, Italy, and delivers a whole lot of flavour and texture when grown in South Australia. Sixth generation winemaker Corinna Wright tags it as a perfect partner for porchetta, but in reality it has the structure and personality to be paired with just about any Italian dish from pizzas and spag bol to fine dining. Dark, herbal, powerful and cellar worthy. If you haven't tried the variety it is well worth giving it a whirl. $55. https://www.oliverstaranga.com/