Deakin Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2004
Victoria $9.95 (560839)
A softer, easier-drinking style of Sauvignon Blanc that the more pungent, heady New Zealand expression. This is crisp and fruit-driven, with tropical, pear and citrus flavours. Well-balanced, well-made, well-priced. Its a great partner for a range of dishes such as grilled white fish and seafood appetizers. (RP)
France
Georges Duboeuf Moulin-à-Vent 2002
AOC Moulin-à-Vent, Beaujolais $18.95 (154864)
Beaujolais is too often thought of as not serious, probably because most people think of Beaujolais Nouveau. Try some of the crus, or designated appellations, within the broader Beaujolais region, and see what the Gamay grape can produce. This bottle delivers fresh cherry and red plum with light spices and a hint of earthiness. Its on the crisp side and makes a perfect partner for tomato-based pasta and meat dishes. Try it with tomato-based chicken or veal stews. (RP)
New Zealand
Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc 2004
Marlborough $14.10 (293043)
A well-priced Sauvignon Blanc in the classic New Zealand style. Look for pungent, rich fruit (passion fruit, green apples, gooseberries and a hint of asparagus) with zesty, ever-so-slightly eye-watering acidity, and a long finish. Delicious and a great partner for freshly-shucked oysters. (RP)
United States
Beringer Founders Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
California $20.00 (534263)
A medium- to full-bodied California Cab that delivers everything you want at this price. Look for generous and richly-flavoured dark fruit (plum, cherry, black berry) with spicy notes and light tannins. Its smooth-textured and pairs perfectly with well-flavoured red meat dishes like beef stew and pepper steak. (RP)
Delicato Merlot 2003
California $12.45 (520148)
A good value Merlot. This wont knock your socks off, but its very well made and you wont get much better for $12. It has a soft, mouth-filling texture, with plump fruit (cherry, plum) flavours and some smoky, spicy notes that add complexity. Itll be great with barbecued red meat once the weather warms up, but drink it now with spaghetti in a rich tomato sauce. (RP)
Ernest & Julio Gallo Sierra Valley Chardonnay 2003
California $8.95 (235598)
A very good value Chardonnay, just the sort of wine you want for everyday drinking or for serving to a crowd. It has quite perfumed aromatics, with tropical fruit and floral hints. On the palate the tropical fruit comes through loud and clear. The balance is good and its a nice partner to straightforward seafood and chicken dishes, or simply for sipping. (RP)
King Fish Shiraz 2003
California $9.95 (622845)
Compare this with a similarly-priced Australian Shiraz and see how the California style varies. This is an unpretentious crowd-pleaseran unpretentious wine, that is, although it will also please an unpretentious crowd. With lots of dark fruit, a hint of vanilla, and a dash of spiciness, its medium bodied and has a good spicy finish. Its perfect with pizza and will make an excellent summer barbecue wine for hamburgers, ribs, steak, chops . Try a bottle now and treat yourself to a taste of summer to come. (RP)