The Drover 2025 Pinot Grigio

 

Who says it is hard to find a wine bargain nowadays? This bright and breezy pinot grigio from Dee Vine Estate won the trophy for the best gris/grigio at the Royal Adelaide Wine Show, beating entries from some of the biggest names in the business. Wine show results don't necessarily count for a lot, but I've tasted this and it is crisp, clean and fresh with some zingy acid on the finish, making it ideal for pairing with Thai or Korean cuisine, or with fresh shellfish. The fruit comes from the Riverina and it was clearly picked at the right time for vibrancy and flavour. No oak was involved, so I'd serve it chilled right now while it is still so perky. Here's the good news:  the price is just $8 a bottle. https://www.deevineestate.com/the-drover/the-drover-pinot-grigio    

Rewild of Murray Darling 2025 Sauvignon Blanc

 

This is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a cheap and cheerful bottle of white wine in the fridge for when friends drop around. Or for quaffing well chilled on the back deck after a long day at work, It is a bargain buy from the "sustainable" wine brand from Duxton Vineyards in the Murray Darling region, presumably picked early to preserve some zingy, zesty varietal fruit characters. I like its clean, pure tropical fruit notes, bright acid - and the price. It is available nationally at Dan Murphy’s and selected BWS stores nationally at an RRP from $9.99. Pair with fish and chips. https://rewildwine.com.au/

De Bortoli 2023 The Estate Vineyard Chardonnay

 

There is a gradual passing of the baton at De Bortoli Yarra Valley with Kate Webber, daughter of winemaker Steve Webber and Leanne de Bortoli, the winemaker of this precise and pristine chardonnay. The Estate Vineyard released are hand-crafted wines that aim to reflect the characters of the family vineyards - and this is outstanding with nectarine and grapefruit notes to the fore. A cool 2023 vintage has resulted in bright acidity, pure fruit flavours and impressive length. I could drink bucketloads of this, paired with old school roast pork, crackling and all the trimmings; or maybe some pan-fried fish. Very good buying for $25. https://www.debortoli.com.au/