Sommeliers share their not-too-expensive wines they pour at dinner parties

I put this question to three of Australia’s finest: Adrian Filiuta, who runs Hunters Hill Wine Room (Sydney), Bridget Raffal, from Claret Club (Sydney) and Melbourne-based Loïc Avril, general manager of wine at Lucas Collective.

My only stipulations: the wines be available for purchase and not too expensive.

Bridget Raffal’s pick: 2023 Patrick Underwood Dash Farms Leanganook Chardonnay ($54) “Australian chardonnay is top-tier, and this is such a perfect expression of it. It’s a real Goldilocks wine – not mean and lean, not big and showy, just beautifully balanced, with delicious fruit and more-ish acidity. Gone in an instant.”

Adrian Filiuta’s pick: 2024 Domaine de la Fessardière Muscadet La Mer ($45) “Dry, zesty, fresh and mineral. Super versatile, either as an aperitif, especially in spring, or paired with a wide range of foods, particularly oysters, seafood and lighter fish dishes. It’s also a great alternative for chablis lovers – much nicer price tag.”

Loïc Avril’s pick: 2023 Vasse Felix Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon ($56) “Cassis berries, fruit-forward and approachable, hints of bay leaf and fresh oak spices, round tannins, lifted and well-structured. A fine wine delivering freshness and a beautiful finish.”

Got a drinks question for Huon Hooke? [email protected]

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