Vasse Felix 2018 Filius Cabernet Sauvignon

A powerful, structured cabernet from one of the best producers in Margaret River for under $30? It sounds too good to be true but Filius "son of" delivers in a big way with  intensity allied to a supple, easy-drinking framework. This is a classic Bordeaux blend of cabernet sauvignon, malbec, petit verdot and merlot, matured in mainly older French oak barriques. Deliciously drinkable with blackcurrant, delicatessen and spicy oak notes. The vinous equivalent of a Phil Spector hit. $29. www.vasssefelix.com.au.

Hay Shed Hill 2019 Margaret River Chardonnay

 

Hay Shed Hill wines are a byword for value for those in the know but can tend to fly a little under the radar in the eastern states. When it comes to price-quality ratio, this chardonnay is outstanding; modern and restrained but with plenty of palate interest. The RRP for this is probably a tenner below what the wine is really worth. Think citrus and white pear notes to the fore, relatively low alcohol at 12.5%, and a fresh, clean palate where French oak merely adds interest but does not intrude on the star attraction, the delicious fruit. Very dry, very bright, very drinkable. $28. https://hayshedhill.com.au/   

Kilikanoon 2020 Killerman's Run Riesling

 

This is one of the most impressive Clare Valley rieslings I have seen from 2020 - and it comes at a bargain price, too.  Cool-fermented juice was given a dose of natural grape sugar to provide additional flavour and complexity. A floral nose leads on to traditional lime, lemon and grapefruit flavours here, along with some very refreshing crisp acidity and some archetypal Clare slatey minerality. Enjoy a glass or two on the back veranda or pair with some whiting fillets. $22. https://kilikanoon.com.au 

Pooley 2019 Butcher's Hill Chardonnay

 

What a way to finish 2020! Tasmania is offering quite a challenge to the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula when it comes to premium cool-climate chardonnay. This single-vineyard wine from the Coal Rover Valley provides compelling evidence. Hand picked, whole bunch pressed to tank, cold settled, 100% barrel fermented and then matured in oak for nine months, it is among the most impressive chardonnays of the year. Think ripe pear notes, white peach and zingy citrus with 40% new oak playing a support role when it comes to flavour. Texturally pleasing, fresh and beguiling. I defy you to stop at just one glass. $65. www.pooleywines.com.au/

Feudo Arancio 2018 Nero d'Avola

 

If money is tight post-Christmas and you are looking for a wine to accompany leftover turkey and ham cold cuts, I have a winner for you. Meet a rather lovely Nero d'Avola from one of the better producers in Sicily that offers quite ridiculous value for money. Imported by Single Vineyard Cellars, it is a delightful medium-bodied red wine with red fruit flavours to the fore. Versatile, it would also pair well with risotto, pasta dishes, pizzas and mushroom dishes. $20. www.singlevineyards.com.  

Berton Vineyards Metal Range 2020 Sauvignon Blanc

The packaging may suggest an expensive white - but looks are deceiving in this case and you can buy this at a bargain price. It is a serious crowd pleaser, a lively sauvignon blanc made from cool-climate Padthaway fruit with a high refreshment index that would go down a treat with a barbecue or at a Christmas party. Tropical fruit flavours are to the fore here, but it is well balanced and lingering for the modest price tag. $14. www.bertonvineyards.com.au

Port Phillip Estate 2020 Pinot Nouveau

 

Calling all lovers of Beaujolais Nouveau, light red wines from the Loire and pinots barely out of short pants. Have I got a summer treat for you. This is a super little wine for enjoying chilled with a picnic, or dinner on a warm evening. Think whole-bunch wild fermentation, (brief) maturation in big old French large-format oak, malo and no fining with minimal filtration and SO2. The end result; a lively, precociously seductive red that is bright and perky with berry flavours, lightness and delicacy. Pair with pork spare ribs, or a chicken salad. Terrific value at $26. www.portphillipestate.com.au/