Austrian wines are seldom seen outside the country’s borders – which is the only reason that Grüner Veltliner, the nation’s finest white grape, is not better known. This classic example is from a small winery in Krems, a town with eight centuries of winemaking tradition. Founded in 1938 by members of the local Wine Growers Guild, it lies at the heart of the Kremstal region, where clay and limestone soils “imbue the finest Veltliners with a density all of their own” (Jancis Robinson MW). Hand harvested, the grapes are gently pressed to extract only the most delicate flavours. A classic ‘GrüVe’ with spice and green apple fruit and a white pepper finish, Danaris is ideal with roast pork and apple sauce, grilled fish or spicy Asian cuisine.

The Morrison Shiraz vineyard, for which the wine is named, is situated directly across from Kilikanoon's winery in the Clare Valley sub-region of Leasingham. The Cabernet Sauvignon with which it is blended lies on the opposite ridge, a spectacular vineyard which glistens gold in the morning sun. Basket pressed into new and seasoned French oak barrels for 16 months. It is silky and fragrant, with hints of mint and pepper and "It's in very good shape... 94pts" (Mike Bennie, Halliday Wine Companion).

MadFish was established by Howard Park as a standalone brand with a focus on expressive, affordable, drink-now wines, and is named after a bay in the Great Southern (near Denmark). “... one to enjoy now, at a barbecue but it’ll mellow in a few more years. Cassis and cherries, cedary, woodsy spice, a hint of fresh herbs and some sway with the tannins. It works across a medium-bodied palate and has plenty of refreshing acidity and a touch of detail. 90pts, Great Value.” Jane Faulkner, The Halliday Wine Companion.

The southern Rhône’s cru villages deliver remarkable richness as well as value – all nine of them well worth discovering. One of the best is Vacqueyras, the village watched over by the towering Dentelles de Montmirail (google and you'll find some impressive images of these iconic rugged landmarks) . Cuvée Préstigieux is from the Guillot family. In 1911, great grandfather of the current owner forsook his birthplace of Burgundy and headed south to the Rhône valley. There he bought his first vineyard. Today, Laurent Guillot is in charge, working the family plots both in Burgundy and the southern Rhône. This Cuvée Préstigieux is a full-bodied style with ripe raspberry fruit from the Grenache, while the Syrah brings herbal aromas and blackberry and a touch of Mourvèdre adds spice. Ace with roast lamb or a rich casserole.