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    

Ekin 2024 Adelaide Hills Pinot Noir

 

It is becoming increasingly difficult to find quality pinot noir for which you don't need to take out a mortgage. Make a note of this one: juicy, fresh and loveable pinot from the Adelaide Hills that won't cost an arm and a leg. It is floral and red fruited with some deli hints on the impressively complex palate. Ekin Wine Co, was only founded five years ago, but the fruit used here comes from 25-year-old vines. Ten months in mature oak barrels has added complexity without intruding on the vibrant joie de vivre in the fruit. Pair with Chinese roast duck or some pork belly. This is a serious bargain. $25. https://ekinwineco.com.au/  

Clonakilla 2025 Viognier Nouveau

Here they come: just a few weeks after vintage the first wines from the 2025 season are hitting the market. Clonakilla, based at Murrumbateman, outside Canberra, is best known for its benchmark Shiraz Viognier blend, where a small portion of the viognier grape softens shiraz. Here the Rhone white variety stands alone, fermented cold and released young; strutting its stuff as a fresh, vibrant and flavoursome wine for immediate enjoyment. Think stone fruit, minerality and bright acid. Pair with vegetarian or poultry dishes. $35. www.clonakilla.com.au.