Little William 2016 Montepulciano

Mino and Co. is a new wine name to me - but with the striking presentation and brilliant 2016 Montepluciano I will certainly be paying attention from now on. The Little William label is a play on the family name of Guglielmino, who originated in the Sicilian coastal village of Fiumefreddo. The family has a deft touch with Italian varietals sourced both from the Riverina and South Australia - or in this case Heathcote in Victoria. This one paired impressively with a mushroom pizza but would match well with a range of dishes given its balance between fruit and savoury characters. Lovely stuff. $35. https://minoandco.com.au/

Curly Flat 2019 Chardonnay

 

After 30+ years of producing stellar chardonnays and pinot noirs in the Macedon Ranges, Curly Flat is something of an "insiders" wine, much loved by members of the trade; mainly because of reliable quality and terrific value. Owner Jenifer Kolkka brought winemaker Matt Harrop on board a couple of vintages ago and the wines continue to shine; this rather Burgundian chardonnay, more Meursault than Chablis, would be fabulous with Christmas roast pork or turkey. Concentrated stone fruit aided and abetted by mineral acid drive. Lovely stuff. 96/100. $46. www.curlyflat.com.

d'Arenberg 2019 The Anthropecene Epoch

 

Feeling adventurous? Dump cabernet, bypass shiraz and instead enjoy a glass or two of mencia. The grape from north-west Spain is very much at home in the warmth of McLaren Vale, producing medium-bodied reds with lips-smacking potential. This is fresh, vibrant and aromatic with berry and plum notes to the fore. A wine for enjoying in its youth - and it can even be lightly chilled on a summer day. Pair with a Spanish omelette. $30. www.darenberg.com.au  

Yalumba 2016 The Signature

 

If you are looking for a Christmas present for a lover of serious Australian wine then look no further. This is the new release of a classic Australian blend of cabernet sauvignon and shiraz with the signature of long-time Yalumba winemaker Louisa Rose. Yalumba's history dates back to 1849 and since 1962 each release of the Signature has been dedicated to people who have "made a significant contribution to the culture and traditions of Yalumba".  This is the 47th Signature and probably one of the finest - well done winemaker Kevin Glastonbury. This vintage is dark and inky, complex and intense and is drinking well in its youth but will cellar well. Pair with beef bourgignon or fricasee of mushrooms. $65. www.yalumba.com.