Jansz ‘Premium Cuvée’ Sparkling Brut Non-Vintage

Tasmania $26.95 (566828) 12.5% alcohol

One of Australia’s premium producers of bubbly, Jansz produced this in the rigorous Traditional Method with the final blend spending just over two years in bottle on its lees before being disgorged—it’s a 53% Chardonnay/44% Pinot Noir/3% Pinot Meunier blend. It fills the glass with a generous mousse and fine-bead bubbles persisting throughout. Look for citrus tang, wisps of red berry fruit and notions of nutty notes on the crisp, clean finish. A terrific sparkler as an aperitif, for greeting guests or matched with seafood. (Vic Harradine) 
 
  
Penmara Wines 'White Ribbon' Semillon 21016
Hunter Valley $14.95 (474031) 10.5% alcohol
This is very pale gold with an ever-so-slight cast of green. It has a crisp nose of citrus, honeysuckle and fresh green peas with undertones of minerality. Medium to light bodied on the palate, the flavours of lime, citrus peel and well balanced acidity all fade equally on the finish. This very good-value Semillon is perfectly paired with goat cheese. (Dave Isaacs)

• The following exceptional-value, Torrontés from Susan Balbo is a Vintages Essentials’ wine always available in select stores. 
 
   
Susana Balbo Crios Torrontés 2016
Argentina $13.95 (1834) 13% alcohol
This striking wine is very pale yellow with a slightly cool greenish cast. There are pleasant aromas of clover, nectar, and rose water on the nose, with lemon and citrus peel flavours on the palette. The full body is balanced by a racy acidity that carries the wine through a long lemon finish. Although dry overall, the wine has an impression of gentle sweetness that makes you want to take another sip. A fine match for some spicy Pad Thai. (Dave Isaacs)
 
• The following Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaret River is a Vintages Essentials wine always available in select LCBO stores.

  
ring.bolt Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Margaret River $21.95 (606624) 14.5% alcohol 
Floral, savory and dark berry fruit aromas set the table for a smorgasbord of flavours led by a palate-coating, gusher of ripe juicy fruit—ripe juicy black Bing cherry, black bramble berry and red currant—interlaced with black licorice, espresso roast and hints of cassis. Showcasing good purity of fruit and with depth and complexity, this is medium-full bodied with creamy-smooth mouthfeel and a lingering aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)