If your wine budget is a bit stretched post-Christmas this new release from the team at Parker Coonawarra Estate delivers a whole lot of value for a very reasonable price. This is designed for early drinking but has plenty of style and swagger; definitely fruit driven with maturation in older French oak barriques and hogsheads playing a minor support role. A very good choice if a few friends drop around for dinner, or you want to add a touch of class to your backyard barbecue. $24. www.parkercoonawarraestate.com.au
A few months in bottle have left this perennial favourite well primed for summer enjoyment. You get the best elements of both Pinot G styles here; freshness and vibrancy along with texture and complexity. Pinkish in colour, this is a delightful food wine, ideal for pairing with everything from seafood to picnics. Stone fruit flavours are to the fore here, along with some restrained acidity. Lovely drinking and great value. My bottle just evaporated. $24. www.timadamswines.com.au/
How good is this? A high-quality blanc de blancs style from one of the pioneers of sparkling wine in Australia that is just perfect for summer enjoyment. A blend of fruit from the Yarra Valley, Strathbogie Ranges and Whitlands in Victoria, this is crisp, dry and extremely refreshing - a perfect party or aperitif choice. Aromatic with green apple and lemon notes to the fore, this is delicate, easy to drink and terrific value. $25. www.chandon.com.au/
