Ripper riesling
Taylors 2015 Promised Land Riesling
This is an ideal wine for the tail end of summer; a fresh and lively entry-level riesling from Clare Valley family producers Taylors under the Promised Land label, which offers quality quaffing across the range.
From a very good vintage, it is dry with bright acidity that complements the zingy lemon and lime sherbet flavours.
A lovely all-purpose white, affordable and a good match for seafood, poultry dishes and Asian plates. $15.
Bargain red
Henry’s Drive 2013 Pillar Box Red
Looking for a food-friendly red wine that is perfect for midweek enjoyment and will not break the bank? This blend of shiraz and cabernet sauvignon from Padthaway in South Australia might fit the bill quite nicely.
It is a well-balanced fruit-driven blend, with dark berry and spice notes to the fore and oak in a support role.
A perfect choice to pair with gourmet burgers or a backyard barbecue – and the retro label is a lot of fun. $16.
Tassie treat
Frogmore Creek 2014 Fumé Blanc
Not only is Frogmore Creek one of Tasmania’s premier winery restaurants, it is also the producer of a range of excellent sustainably produced wines crafted by talented Frenchman Alain Rousseau.
This is a case in point with 100 per cent sauvignon blanc grapes matured in oak to produce a wine that could easily be mistaken for a bottle from the Loire Valley.
Think citrus flavours alongside some creamy textural notes, and with bright fresh acidity as the underpinning factor. $28.
