Some things play sweet, but the sweetness stays out of the way because your eye (and palate) is too busy loving all the big orange notes here, which dance with local botanicals— strawberry gum and lemon myrtle. Pour generously in a highball over ice. Yum.

Scintilla Apero Blanc Vermouth 2023

A mostly whole-bunch fermentation that shows off some skinsy Chardonnay, but with phenolic edges that are lifted by the Sauvignon Blanc with Swayze-like. When floating up there, you'll feel floral and citrus goodness, and a fresh-cut grass feel.

Scintilla Elektrik Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay 2023

Pulpy with a little oxidative edge. This drinks broad so a lot of people are going to love it, and find attractive flavours in every sip. Ripe apple is pretty consistent throughout, like a smile.

Scintilla River Balhannah Chardonnay 2023

Well-balanced sweetness. Dark berries and plums that sparkle, or bubble even. Notes are worth journaling because they’re mulberry and a stingy piece of dark chocolate – apparently, I break off too much and need to be ‘monitored’ at family functions when the block comes out. Don’t worry, it’s on my list of things to work through with my therapist.

Gudilly Sparkling Shiraz NV

Offer up glasses of flowing, liquored berries, sweet cherries and some blackcurrant essence tonight to yourself or those lucky enough to be in your (and this bottle’s) company. Soft n plush with enough tannin to keep you engaged, even after the conversation has lulled and everyone’s on Insta.

Gudilly Shiraz 2022

Philosophers say that even in dreams, we create problems because we want something to overcome. I have this recurring dream where, despite pouring from a full 750ml bottle, I can’t fill up my glass with the 150mls I want which means I only ever get to enjoy just a sip of all the black currant cassis and tobacco a wine like this offers.

Gudilly Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

Aromatic and easy-drinking that’s one of those you open, pour, drink and forget about. This doesn’t mean it’s ambient, just that it’s agreeable with all the plush red fruits and berries you’ve grown up loving in Pinots. So good with dips and chips. Speaking of… how come people don’t have dip for dinner? Why is it always a snack and why can’t it be a meal?

Gudilly Pinot Noir 2023

Aromatic and easy-drinking that’s one of those you open, pour, drink and forget about. This doesn’t mean it’s ambient, just that it’s agreeable with all the plush red fruits and berries you’ve grown up loving in Pinots. So good with dips and chips.

Gudilly Rose Pinot Noir 2023

In northern Italy, it's often paired with fish dishes and creamy lunches. This SA version is pure refreshment and delicate with flowers and just a hint of crisp pear, you're going to love it.

Gudilly Pinot Bianco 2023

If she starts going on about her favourite Sparkling, which was the one she requested, just focus on the gentle sounds of the heavenly bubbles popping in your glass and know that there’s more for you. Tastes like lemon sorbet, but with an almost creamy texture.

The Other Right Bright Young Things Chardonnay Pet Nat 2023

First Drop The Real Time Chardonnay 2022

It’s one of our favourite table Chardonnay’s every year. Always gets three votes at a park party, and loves to hang with Brie and crackers. If all that didn’t get you over the line, there’s also fresh stone fruit and a little lemon curd on the palate.

Chain of Ponds Chardonnay 2023

Made with a blend of Riesling and Sangiovese this tasty lil' number is brimming with fresh sherbet, mandarin, citrus blossom and a lick of pink grapefruit, yet remains deliciously dry on the palate.

Italian Plastic Riesling Sangiovese Pét Nat 2023

Weaver Sauvignon Blanc 2023

If the words "easy-drinking BBQ wine" pique your interest, you're going to want to pay close attention to this! A Tempranillo with a splash of Graciano that's all cherries. Super bright red cherries and spice on the nose lead to cherry ripe characters on the palate, with a crack of black pepper and a nice smidge of tannin. Delicious.

Lobethal Road Tempranillo 2022

Dry and savoury in style with plenty of fruit cake spice. Here’s a Sparkling Shiraz that’s perfect for with so many divine snacks and meals. Has a good, tannic grip and finishes spicy, rather than sweet.

Patritti Lavoro Sparkling Shiraz NV

If you're in need of a bottle to please the palates of many, open this STAT. Delightfully fresh in style, this Pinot Grigio drinks almost like a Gris in style, with melon, apple, lifted florals, apple blossom and a moreish, softer winter weight to it.

Patritti Pinot Grigio 2023

XO Wines Small Batch Chardonnay 2022

A fantastic local example of this Northern Italian variety. Deliciously dark with savoury leather notes at the fore, plump plum and red cherry fruits build in the glass, with a brambly edge and some bright n' tangy acidity washing through for a lively finish.

First Drop Wines Moderno Barbera 2021

This is what that person was drinking last week at the house party you went. Remember the one having an amazing, carefree time, who came in with some big energy and, like the wine, was layered with tropical fruit, some nougaty richness and a little green almond? Thanks F.S!