Rutherglen Estates 2008 Fiano

"I have seen the future of Australian white wine ...". I'm exaggerating, but this is an impressive first vintage of this Italian variety with plenty of grapey characters, hints of nuts and a chalky, dry finish. All but sold out and no wonder at $18.99.

Domaine Chandon 2008 Pinot Noir

A triumph from a difficult drought year. It may be light in colour with subtle flavours - but in a world of blockbuster reds that's a bonus. Sour cherry flavours, spicy oak and intense tannins. A really lovely drink. $34.

Stella Bella 2007 Tempranillo

The new releases from this Margaret River winery are all of exemplary quality, but this particularly stood out. Made from the famous red grape of Rioja, in Spain, it is spicy and savoury with soft juicy fruit characters. Our bottle simply evaporated. $30.

Penfolds 2008 Bin 311 Chardonnay

Penfolds may be best known for reds but they also produce some cracking whites, as evidenced by this fabulous Tumbarumba chardonnay which has slatey minerality, citrus and nectarine flavours, funkyness, great acid and depth of flavour. $43.

Grant Burge 2008 East Argyle Pinot Gris

An impressive contender in the competitive pinot gris stakes; a cool-climate Eden Valley wine with enticing floral aromas, compelling fruit intensity with pear/citrus to the fore, palate softness and acid backbone. Delightful! $18.

Peter Lehmann 2008 Clancy's Rosé

This outperformed several more expensive rosés in a tasting at our place - with the early-picked fruit giving it a delightful vibrancy and freshness. Low in alcohol at 11.5%, this would be perfect chilled, on a warm day, with Lebanese food. $15.

Brokenwood 2008 Cricket Pitch White

Brokenwood's Cricket Pitch white is always a joy to drink. A blend of sauvignon blanc and semillon from Cowra and the King Valley that's partially barrel fermented, it has citrus aromas, freshness and lively acid. An absolute ripper! $19.