Wine reviews from Chris Shanahan

Tyrrell's Lost Block Semillon 2015 $13–$18

Tyrrell's offers a range of Hunter semillons from the austere Vat 1 to this approachable Lost Block. Vat 1 and similar Hunter semillon styles gather richer texture and deeper flavour with bottle age – sometimes for decades. But Lost Block, although low in alcohol (11 per cent), drinks well on release because it's softer and presents upfront fruit flavours. It's smooth-textured, and light and fresh on the palate, with the region's delicious lemongrass and citrus-like flavours. As one of Australia's distinctive regional specialties, it offers tremendous value for money.

Hardys Sir James Pinot Noir Chardonnay Cuvee Brut $8.99–$15

With big stocks on hand, Accolade Wines, Hardys parent company, dropped the price on one of Australia's most popular bubblies just in time for Christmas and New Year. Independent retailers leapt in, dropping the price to under $10, leaving the big retailers flat-footed. They may well have matched the price before you read this. It's a light, flavoursome bubbly with gentle varietal flavours, subtle yeast-derived brioche-like notes and deliciously fresh finish.

Moppity Vineyards Lock and Key Single Vineyard Hilltops Shiraz 2014 $15.50– $22

Jason Brown trumpets his recent success as most successful exhibitor at the Royal Hobart Wines Show as a unique win for the wines of southern NSW. Brown's Hobart success follows similar awards at this year's Canberra Regional Wine Show, Riverina Wine Show and NSW Small Winemakers Show. All up this year, his Hilltops and Tumbarumba wines have won 11 trophies and 71 gold medals. Brown's 2014 shiraz, winner of two gold medals, shows the lovely perfume, fruit and harmony that appeal to the judges. A soft, medium-bodied style, it pulses with spicy, cherry-like varietal flavour.