Mount Langi Ghiran 2009 Billi Billi Pinot Grigio

Esteemed Victorian winery Mount Langi Ghiran pioneered pinot grigio in Australia and has been making the style for almost 20 years - well before it became insanely fashionable. This has just 11% alcohol and is young and vibrant with pear and tropical fruit salad flavours and great finishing acid. This is a wine that has real drinkability – and it's a delicious alternative to Kiwi sauvignon blanc. $15.

Red Knot 2008 Shiraz

It's been a while since I've had a $15 red as satisfying as this little gem from renowned McLaren Vale producer Shingleback. It's a rich, flavoursome wine with plenty of grunt but the oak is nicely integrated and it is beautifully soft on the palate. Every time I looked down my glass was empty - always a good sign. Great value for $14.95.

Stefano Lubiana 2009 Sauvignon Blanc

Here's a sauvignon blanc that's a rare pleasure to drink. Made by the talented Steve Lubiana at Granton in the Derwent Valley, 20 kilometres north of Hobart, it has no herbaceous harshness, or excess acid. Instead this is beautifully balanced white with fresh, zippy apple and citrus flavours. Try this tangy, crisp and refreshing wine with pan-fried fish fillets, or lightly-spiced Asian dishes. $28.

Cookoothama 2007 Cabernet Merlot

Everyone loves a bargain and you won't find many better red wines for under $15 than this little beauty from the Nugan Estate stable. There are earthy/plummy aromas and the palate follows through with dark cherry, currant and chocolate characters, lovely soft mouthfeel and well-integrated oak. Every home should have a few bottles of this delightful all-purpose, medium-bodied red. It will even cellar well for a couple of years. $14.95.