Mount Horrocks 2026 Watervale Riesling

 

Mount Horrocks is a seriously boutique producer in the Clare Valley. Vigneron Stephanie Toole makes only 3,000 cases a year, and just 500 cases of this stunning riesling. All her wines are organic and biodynamic and this new release is gloriously vibrant - a classic example of dry Watervale riesling. Crisp, crunchy and extremely food friendly, it is described by Toole as "a wine of immense purity and finesse".  Think floral aromas, lifted citrus notes, river pebble minerality and brisk acid on the finish. Pair this taut number with salt and pepper squid, or pan-fried sardines. Lovely, and great value. $45. https://www.mounthorrocks.com/ 

Jacob's Creek 2026 Le Petit Rosé

I don't pay a lot of attention to wine show results but when a new-release sub-$20 wine that is widely available cracks a trophy at a major shows then my attention is piqued. This snagged the Leslie Kemeny Memorial Perpetual Trophy for Best Rosé at the recent Royal Sydney Wine Show (and later won best rosé in Perth), so I asked for a sample. It's a good 'un: fun, dry and food friendly. It is a fresh and lively blend of pinot noir, grenache and mourvedre with bright acid and some chalky texture. Ideal for enjoying chilled with a picnic, charcuterie plate, Middle Eastern dishes, or a creamy pasta dish. The RRP is $20 but you'll find it cheaper if you search. https://jacobscreek.com/ 

Oakdene 2025 Chardonnay

 

What a fun and affordable wine this is: perfect for midweek tippling. From reliable Bellarine Peninsula producer Oakdene, it is unmistakably chardonnay, but without all the un-needed bells and whistles. 100% chardonnay and 100% Geelong, this did spend some time in a combo of new and old oak but it is the cool-climate fruit - bright and lively - that is the driving force here. If you haven't tried wines from Oakdene before this is a very good starting point and would pair brilliantly with some barbecued pork spare ribs. $30. https://www.oakdene.com.au/