Money can be tight after Christmas, so wine writer Winsor Dobbin suggests some summer whites that will deliver good drinking but will not break the bank, along with a couple of reds that can be lightly chilled on a warm day.
Long-time favourite
Tahbilk 2024 Marsanne
Marsanne is a grape that originated In the Rhone Valley in France – but some of the oldest plantings the world – close to a century old – are found at Tahbilk in Victoria – where the Purbrick family is currently celebrating 100 years of family ownership. In France, Marsanne is often blended. Here it produces a delicious drink that can either be enjoyed in its youth or cellared for several years. Think floral aromas, stone fruit flavours, hints of spice and a dry finish. Always good value and a terrific all-rounder. $22.
French style
Jardin d’Aromes 2023 Pinot Gris
Here is a lovely white from the Jean-Claude Mas stable in the south of France that not only offers fun summer drinking but comes in a bottle that is a work of art and will be sought-after as a vase or candle holder. Pinot gris is not that common in the Languedoc however this one certainly delivers plenty of value. As the name suggests, this is a fragrant wine, easy to drink, with stone fruit flavours. It is unoaked but was matured on lees to add complexity. Available in Dan Murphy’s stores for $23.
Clare classic
Pikes 2024 Traditionale Riesling
Pikes make a superb reserve Riesling called “The Merle” that is among the best and most collectable rieslings in Australia. For those with tightened purse strings, however, this perennially popular wine has something of a cult following among followers of crisp, young dry rieslings. Think classic lemon, lime and grapefruit flavours and brisk acid on the finish. Pair with a bucket of chilled prawns for serious summer enjoyment. $26.
Budget bargain
Vasse Felix 2024 Classic White
Star Margaret River winery Vasse Felix makes some outstanding wines at all price points, and winemaker Virgina Willcock shows her skills in producing this blend of semillon and sauvignon blanc at a serious bargain price. It’s a classic thirst-quencher and extremely food friendly. Fresh, vibrant, and zingy, this would be an excellent choice to accompany a beach picnic or a day by the pool. It also paired well with pan-fried blue eye. $20.
And a couple of red interlopers:
Spanish star
Bodegas Luzon 2023 Verdecillo
Here is another one of those Aldi supermarket bargain imports, although you might have to search this one out as it is an experimental release that is only available in selected NSW stores. Monastrell is what the Spanish call the grape we know as mataro and the French call mourvèdre. This is a spiffy savoury red that could pair with anything from paella to barbecued gourmet sausages. It’s organic, vegan friendly and with no added sulphites. So hip, and healthy. $10.
Versatile choice
Taylor Made 2022 BDX Blend
The Taylor Made range from Clare Valley-based Taylors has been given a serious label upgrade to match the quality of what veteran winemaker Adam Eggins puts into bottle. This is the style of red that is worth having on hand when friends drop around and you fire up the barbecue. It’s a Bordeaux-style blend of cabernet, merlot, malbec and cabernet franc with impressive complexity, depth of flavour and herbal hints. $25.
See more of Winsor’s wine reviews at www.gourmetontheroad.com.
