Epic summer reds not to miss
From fresh Aussie pinot through to impressive South African grenache via an Italian classic - here’s five full flavoured, crushable light-to-medium bodied red wines that are a perfect match for picnics, barbecues and gorgeous summer sundowners.
Rob Dolan Wines Pinot Noir 2023
The Rob Dolan team have been making some of the most iconic wines of the Yarra Valley and broader Victorian region for decades. This is, of course, no exception to that spirit of excellence; fresh red raspberries and pulpy cherry meet fine, slippery tannin structure. This pinot is produced from mainly Yarra Valley fruit, with a bit of Yea fruit thrown in for good measure. A brilliantly delivered wine from a master of his craft.
Eminence Novella Pinot Noir 2023
This wine is enormous fun - light, bright, sappy, floral, confected, a little bunch. There is complexity for days. The fruit weight is complete and satisfying and, while it remains light bodied (as pinot classically and varietally should) it feels complete and satisfying on the palate. There is bricky, savoury back palate nuance which puts a nice little bow on the mid-palate fruit, punctuating it and acting as a counterpoint to the pep of the acidity. It feels – and is – expertly crafted at every step.
Lourens Family Wines Howard John 2020
This is one producer that is achieving almost show-off levels of quality: this grenache blend is an example of just that. You’ll find raspberry, cherry, anise and rose on the nose. Have a sip and it’s the freshness that strikes you first. Stony minerality, briny hints, olive and crunchy tannins round out the palate. Another triumph for this young winemaker.
Frasca d'Asti DOCG Barbera 2021
Bursting with ripe cherries, plums and a distinct fresh raspberry acidity. A surprisingly long finish and a lovely little lick of tannin. Italian wine purists would cringe if you chilled this one down a bit, but we won't tell - enjoy yourself.
Gapsted Limited Release Sparkling Shiraz NV
Not just for Christmas - this sparkling shiraz is no exception to Gapsted’s long history of mastering sparkling wine, with a few standouts across their range. And, what a ripper example of sparkling shiraz - lively and fruity, richly-flavoured, with a bright, crisp acidity. There’s dark berries and cherries, spices and a lingering dry finish. Whether you’re a life-long lover or trying it for the first time, it is so, so sure to please..
Whether shiraz, cabernet or gamay - find your next summer crush in our full reds range.
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