Bleasdale 2022 Block 99 Malbec

 

It is widely recognised that the Aldi supermarket chain regularly showcases some of the best-value imported wines to be found in Australia. What is less well known is that Aldi also sells some terrific home-grown wines at absurdly low prices. From the venerable Bleasdale operation in Langhorne Creek, this an excellent example of varietal malbec, often used for blending but also the grape used in the classic French reds of Cahors and most of the stellar Argentine reds from Mendoza. This is an excellent example: Sturdy, but with some interesting chalky minerality. Pair with gourmet sausages. $16. https://www.aldi.com.au/

Bremerton 2022 Selkirk Shiraz

Grapes from Langhorne Creek are a secret weapon for many of Australia's highest-profile wine producers; offering excellent quality without a Barossa or McLaren Vale price tag. Family-owned and female-operated Bremerton is one of the leading producers in the region, and something of a byword for value among those in the know. This a very classy - and slurpable - shiraz that offers a whole of lot of medium-bodied drinking pleasure. The name “Selkirk” relates to a Scottish border town was the ancestral home of the Willson family. Think a lovely soft palate structure with dark berry notes, hints of pepper and restrained oak. You don't have to wait. You can enjoy this one right away. I'd pair it with a steak with mushroom sauce, or some hard cheeses. It's also Vegan friendly, for those who consider such matters. $24. https://www.bremerton.com.au/