Carlei Estate 2005 Chardonnay

Absolutely outstanding - one of the best chardonnays I've tasted recently. Biodynamics advocate Sergio Carlei is making superb wines and this barrel-fermented Yarra Valley beauty has great fruit, elegance and drinkability. $45.

Devil's Lair 2006 Chardonnay

A very classy Margaret River chardonnay with flavour, texture and complexity but also great drinkability. There are stone fruit and almonds on the nose, while the palate is delicate with grapefruit and cashew characters. Wonderfully balanced. $45.

Bay of Fires 2002 Arras

This is arguably Australia's finest sparkling wine, a complex, nutty and mature bubbly that oozes class and finishes with a lovely crisp acidity. You won't do better over the holiday period than this intense blend of chardonnay and pinot noir. $60.

Pfeiffer 2007 Ensemble

What a great picnic wine! This rosé-style blend from north-east Victoria offers sweet berry fruit flavours with just a hint of spice, and a crisp, clean finish. A wine for enjoying well-chilled on a warm day, or with a Lebanese banquet. $14.

Tim Adams 2006 Botrytis Affected Riesling

Clare Valley winemaker Tim Adams is a master of making dry rieslings and this proves he's no slouch with dessert styles either. It has pronounced fruit sweetness along with some delicious floral and lemon/lime characters and a nice acid finish. $20.

Brokenwood 2007 Semillon

The 2007 semillons from the Hunter Valley were of stellar quality and this is one of the best - fresh, lively and citrusy with delightful balance and structure, finishing dry on the palate. Given time in the bottle it will develop toasty characters. $19.

Cape Mentelle 2005 Cabernet Merlot "Trinders"

A recent visit to Cape Mentelle underlined the high quality across the range. This is the style of wine every household needs a case of; it has wonderful balance, and is an atypical Australian red given its softness and elegance. Wonderful drinking. $30.