A STATE OF MURRAY DARLING

2021 MDI Pinot Grigio, $22

If there’s a wine that Kev McCarthy knows how to make in this country, it’s pinot grigio and this newest iteration is no exception. Taking a fresh look at Mildura and pinot grigio (with the help of friends and growers), the wine spends time on skins to create a textural, luscious wine to suit any occasion. mandi.wine

2021 Chalmers ‘Mother Block’ White Blend, $23

A vermentino-dominant blend alongside lesserknown varieties of ansonica, falanghina and pecorino all grown on the Mother Block, the heart of the entire Chalmers’ family vineyards. The grapes are co-fermented for an authentic savoury and crisp Italian white blend made in Australia. chalmers.com.au

2018 Handpicked Wines ‘Trial Batch’ Nero d’Avola, $29

Nero d’avola is a native Sicilian grape that finds itself at home in vineyards across the country, known for its rich aroma of plums and blueberries. This incarnation from Handpicked Wines also shows a fine line of dried herbs and crushed tomato, making it perfect for barbecues or pizza. handpickedwines.com.au

2017 Save Our Souls Sagrantino, $26

Often called the “nightclub bouncer” of the wine world, sagrantino is a full-bodied wine lovers’ dream. Sourced from the Chalmers’ vineyards and made as a side project by winemakers William Downie and Jason Searle to be approachable and slurpable. Pair with charcuterie and great company. saveoursouls.com.au

Fossey’s ‘Darling Harvest’ Blood Orange and Mandarin Gin, $95

The floral citrus of blood oranges and mandarins shines so beautifully through this gin that you hardly need a garnish (but thyme and orange would be excellent). Not only is this delicious but with all profits going directly to the Mildura Community Water Bank, it’s a gin that’s good for the soul. fosseysgin.com.au