FOUR Australian wines
Robert Oatley Finisterre Chardonnay 2019, Margaret River, Australia, £22.50, Fareham Wine Cellar From another star winemaker, this silky chardonnay is rich and powerful, yet wonderfully elegant with glossy tropical fruits, pear drops, hints of cream, nougat, nectarine, lime blossom and well-judged oak, all leading to a long, fine finish exhibiting verve and freshness. A perfect parcel, the price reflects the purity, clarity and quality of fruit.
2 Wynns The Siding Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Coonawarra, Australia, £15.50, Tesco
Another splendid example of Coonawarra cabernet sauvignon, this famous producer’s entry-level offers a wealth of flavour and richness with plump, luscious fruit, notes of undergrowth, cedary oak, menthol, fresh sage, exquisite florals – think lavender and violets – and a velvety smooth, polished finish.
3 19 Crimes Chardonnay 2022, South Eastern Australia, £9.50, Sainsbury’s
An upfront chardonnay in a rich, buttery style, this golden nugget offers tropical fruit flavours with flecks of honey, caramel and vanilla notes, in a bold but balanced style. The lemony acidity keeps everything fresh and bright, with a creamy, harmonious finish.
4 Kooliburra Clare Valley Shiraz 2021, South Australia,
£7.99, Aldi, in-store Australia’s A-list red grape, you can’t beat a rich, ripe food-friendly red that promises satisfaction with every sip. Beautifully aromatic with dark brambly fruits, mulberry, cherries and gentle spice, overlaid with the faintest hint of toasty oak and a smooth, savoury finish.