Bargain buy
Deakin Estate 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon
A smart new label and a terrific red for everyday enjoyment from Deakin Estate’s River to Vine range. The fruit is sourced from vineyards near Mildura, and the end result is a hearty red with smooth, rich, dark fruit characters allied to hints of spice and black chocolate. There is minimal oak here but plenty of elemental flavour. Pair this with a gourmet hamburger, a rib-eye steak, or perhaps a cheese platter. $10.
Cheap as chips
Berton Vineyard 2016 Classic Chardonnay
You’ve got to love a crisp and refreshing chardonnay that doesn’t break the bank, and this one is an absolute steal. The classy metal label is easy to find and the bottle contents are very classy; cool-climate chardonnay from the Limestone Coast in South Australia with bright citrus to the fore and just a hint of French oak in a support role. Terrific everyday drinking, it paired well with a pork chop and tangy chutney. $12.
Italian accent
Calabria 2016 Private Bin Nero d’Avola
The Calabria family are masters of producing excellent wines made from Italian grape varieties grown on their Riverina vineyards. This Nero d’Avola, a red grape originally from Sicily, is the star of the line-up. The Riverina region enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate that’s ideal for varieties like this, which will be mainstream within a decade or so. $15.
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