MacLean Bay 2020 Pinot Rosé

 

Over the past couple of vintages, MacLean Bay - based at Bicheno on Tasmania's warmer east coast - have established themselves as one of the better producers of dry rosés on the island state. The 2019 was outstanding and this is a worthy successor - and overdue - as the 2019 had long sold out. It is made from 100% estate pinot noir fruit with classic strawberry and cream flavours. It is fresh and dry with a crisp finish. Great with salads or picnics and good value for $28. An ideal choice for late summer quaffing. www.macleanbaywines.com.au/

Olivers Taranga Small Batch 2019 Mencia

There are only a handful of producers of mencia in Australia, which on the evidence of this outstanding wine from Olivers Taranga in McLaren Vale is a great pity. This is a pretty red, think Beaujolais with bit more meat on its bones, garlic on its breath and a slight snarl. This Spanish variety, known as Jaen in Portugal, is primarily found in north-west Spain and is undergoing a renaissance in popularity. This has floral aromas and bright cherry flavours, a hint of rustic farm and a lively savoury palate. The winemaking team reckon you should pair it with paella; I'd go for an old-fashioned charcuterie plate with some spicy chorizo.. Either way, give it a go. 95 points from me. $35. www.oliverstaranga.com/

Alkoomi 2019 White Label Cabernet Merlot

The white label range from family owned- and operated West Australian winery Alkoomi always offers terrific wine value with this new release a case in point. Made with Frankland River fruit from several blocks, it has rare depth and complexity for a $20 red. Blackberry notes jostle with some dark currant flavours and French oak notes on a palate full of personality. Chewy and interesting and a good partner for just about any beef dish. A very good choice for midweek enjoyment. $20. 

www.alkoomiwines.com.au/

Chalmers 2020 Montevecchio Bianco

 

I think I have discovered the perfect white wine for late summer quaffing enjoyment - a little slice of Italy in a glass. This is fresh, crisp, lively, delicious and different. From the Chalmers vineyards at Heathcote in Victoria, this is a co-fermented field blend of six different Italian grape varieties; vermentino, pecorino, ribolla gialla, falanghina, moscato giallo and fiano. The end result is floral with bright acid citrus notes and some chalky texture. Vibrant and well worth seeking out. $24. www.chalmers.com.au/