1) Gentle Folk Village Sauvignon Blanc 2023
15349328 | $28.05

In 2013, Gareth and Rainbo Belton traded their marine scientist white coats for the smock of the country apprentice winemaker. The adventure began with a modest three barrels. Today, however, the Beltons work the Gentle Folk vineyard, 11 hectares of vines in the heart of the magnificent hills of Adelaide, South Australia.

The estate’s sauvignon blanc is unique: visually, by virtue of the tears that cling to the side of the glass – not at all common for this grape. The nose is also surprising with its lightly milky notes, but also mint, honeydew melon and lime pie. The surprise continues in the mouth with a stimulating freshness that plays nicely with jammy, buttery flavours.

Truly atypical, and completely delicious.

2) Nittardi Ben Vermentino Maremma Toscana 2023
15382371 | $28.30

In Italy, Ben is the diminutive for Beniamino, the traditional name given to the family’s youngest child. Thus named, the only white wine from the Nittardi estate is the “youngest” of a large family of reds.

Ben is a Tuscan from Maremma, a Vermentino (native-grape wine) that’s golden with green highlights. A silex mineral nose clears the way for aromas of peach, almond paste and vanilla. This is a Vermentino with body, which lines the mouth with jammy citrus and slides on a saline finish.

A good friend to grilled lobster with lemon butter.

3) Loxarel Ops 2023
314435380 | $25.35

Loxarel, the brand marketed by “Masia Con Mayol” in Penedes (Spain) – known for its exceptional, biodynamic-certified, sparkling wines – surprises here with a red made from a small production of grenache.

It looks very pleasant: gleaming, cherry-coloured with a tinge of violet. The nose is seductive with scents of plum, currant and peppermint. Soft and fine, it is topped off with delicate tannins that strengthen the profile of the fruity flavours.

Easy to digest and just right with grilled skewers of veal