Red wine diversity: Three styles to try

Why is red wine so fascinating? For some of us it's all about finding a favourite wine type, shiraz for example, that is endlessly satisfying, yet capable of enough variation to keep us engaged. For others it's all about the endless permutations available, from simple to complex, and from light-bodied drops to body-slammers. Less familiar Italian grapes vie with old Aussie standards, and European classics contrast with New World innovations. Red wine offers something for most tastes.

Tellurian Nero d'Avola 2018, $26-$28

Score 90

From the southern Italian grape nero d'Avola grown at Heathcote, this has red cherry, pepper and Italian deli aromas that are appetising and interesting. It tastes soft and juicy with easy tannins. A satisfying red for casual dining. Screw cap; 14.4 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over two years.

Stockists include Armadale Cellars, Armadale (Vic); Vine Providore, Redfern (NSW).

John Duval Entity Shiraz 2018, $50-$55

Score 95

Lovely shiraz that perfectly integrates aromas and flavours of dark fruits, sweet and savoury spice, and cedary oak into a polished, mellow wine of delicious drinkability, depth and soft, ripe tannin backbone. A classic style. Screw cap; 14.5 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over 10 years plus.

Stockists include Jim's Cellars stores (NSW); Cloudwine, South Melbourne (Vic).

Logan Weemala Pinot Noir 2018, $18-$20

Score 90

Well-priced young pinot from Orange, NSW. Foresty touches add savoury dimension to subtly attractive pinot noir red berry aromas. It's uncomplicated refreshment, light and fresh, silky and soft, with a fragrant finish. Screw cap; 13.5 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over the next two years.

Stockists include Village Vineyard Fine Booze, Fitzroy North (Vic); Vaucluse Cellars, Vaucluse (NSW).