01 2017 Vignerons Schmölzer & Brown Brunnen Beechworth Chardonnay, Victoria, $44

This is one of the best wines that Tessa Brown has ever made – it’s a cracker!

2. NV Henri Giraud Blanc de Craie Champagne, France, $115

It’s good to have a bottle of Champagne in the fridge over Christmas, and this one is 100 per cent chardonnay from the Montagne de Reims. It’s crisp and refreshing, but not so lean that it doesn’t have a bit of flavour. It's a great style for the warmer months.

3. 2016 Cascina Luisin Piedmont Arneis, Italy, $43

Considering the snacking that happens at this time of year, this arneis is an excellent all-rounder to have on hand for pairing with food.

4. 2018 Rieslingfreak No. 3 Clare Valley Riesling, South Australia, $28

This is one of the best-value rieslings. On a hot summer day, nothing is quite as refreshing as a well-chilled Clare Valley riesling. It’s versatile with food as well.

5. 2015 J.C. Bessin Valmur Grand Cru Chablis, France, $110

This Chablis is a lean, mineral style.

I find Valmur the tightest and most linear of the Grand Cru wines.

6. 2017 Dirty Three All the Dirts Gippsland Pinot Noir, Victoria, $35

This is a great pinot noir to stock up on. You won’t have to think twice about opening it because it’s fantastic value. It can also be slightly chilled – over the warmer months, I like to have reds that can sit in the Esky.

7. 2016 Domaine des Marrans Beaujolais-Villages Gamay,

France, $27

Another light, bright red that won’t overwhelm when the weather is warm.

8. 2017 Terrason Yarra Valley Gamay, Victoria, $28

This gamay is fresh and particularly great with barbecued and cured meats.