The Great Southern wine region lies along the Southern Ocean on Western Australia’s south coast. The pristine ocean and rugged coastline are only part of a spectacular natural environment that includes the ancient Stirling and Porongurup Ranges, magnificent forest, visiting whales and a multitude of wildflowers in season. Stretching 150 km (93 miles) north to south from Western Australia’s south coast and 100 km (62 miles) east to west, it is astually the largest wine-growing region in mainland Australia. From this stunning wine region, 5 Red Star Halliday-rated Byron & Harold, a' formidable partnership' (Halliday), have crafted a glorious “Charming and elegant" Chardonnay “... the bouquet shows apricot, Gala apple, lemon peel and cashew aromas, followed by a finely flowing palate that’s sleek and textured at the same time, finishing lingering and refreshing. Attractively styled with finesse and restraint. At its best: now to 2027. 93pts.” (Sam Kim, Wine Orbit).

Pop open this great value and delicious sparkler. It's from Tasmanian Vintners, a joint venture between Tassie businessman Rod Roberts and Fogarty Wine Group (Deep Woods, Evans & Tate, Dalwhinnie). They've attracted some extraordinary winemakers, including Marlborough-born Liam McElhinney, the former Jimmy Watson Trophy winner. The brief is to produce stylish, modern wines from premium Tasmanian fruit with an identity that remains somewhat mysterious. This sparkling cuvee boasts crisp apple, lemon and hints of strawberry and cashew. A lovely way to kick off a backyard feast. Yum!

”… this is attractive if somewhat shy with its aromas and flavours – a hint of lemon, ginger cream and neat acidity.” (Toni Paterson, The Halliday Wine Companion. Born-and-bred Hunter Valley specialist, Aaron Mercer spent years at Tamburlaine, and had stints at Tyrrell’s and Brokenwood, before setting up on his own. He’s also worked in California, France and Germany so brings a great deal of experience to his winemaking, with a a great small-batch range from premium Hunter Valley sites, Orange and Tumbarumba – as here in this lovely 92pt Chardonnay. For Mercer, these wines are a passion project, only to be produced when great parcels of fruit come into the winery. They are built to be age-worthy and exemplary examples of a region.

Born-and-bred Hunter Valley specialist, Aaron Mercer spent years at Tamburlaine, and had stints at Tyrrell’s and Brokenwood, before setting up on his own. He’s also worked in California, France and Germany so brings a great deal of experience to his winemaking, with a a great small-batch range from premium Hunter Valley sites, Tumbarumba and Orange. This classy, gently oaked Hunter Chardonnay boasts fresh peach, vanilla, and pannacotta flavours and a nutty edge.