Three easy reds to drink right now

Easy drinking, softer young red wines are more common in the marketplace these days than they once were. Many Australians used to pride themselves on their ability to guzzle big, aggressive, alcoholic, tannic wines, often with the proviso that they could age well. Some indeed did develop well, but most were consumed young, and how many people had the ability to keep their hands off a bottle for the required time was a moot point. These days, tannins are often more mellow than they once were, alcohol is less apparent, savoury flavours are prized as much as fruit-sweet ones, and Australians generally want to drink their wine right now.

Luis Felipe Edwards Carmenere 2019, $8

Score: 88

From Chile, carmenere's modern home, this red has savoury aromas of berries, pepper and charry barbecue notes, middling body, juicy flavours and a dry, peppery, low-tannin finish. An everyday quaffer that's super value. Screw cap; 13.5 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over two years.

Stockists include: Just released at ALDI stores, aldi.com.au

St John's Road Motley Bunch Grenache Mataro Shiraz 2017, $20-$22

Score: 91

Raspberry jam, ground pepper/spice and licorice aromas introduce this friendly Barossa Valley drop. Ripely flavoured but not sweet, it's medium bodied and persistent with enough tannin for balance. A snappy new label completes the picture. Screw cap; 14.5 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over four years.

Stockists include: Garage Wine Store, Ripponlea (Vic); Kent St Cellars, Sydney (NSW).

Hay Shed Hill Margaret River Shiraz Tempranillo 2017, $20-$22

Score: 90

A blend of two compatible varieties with good balance of ripe and savoury. Red berry, gentle spice, and complex leathery/earthy notes meet the nose. It's medium bodied, with smoky flavours, fine texture and tangy balance. Screw cap; 14.5 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over two years.

Stockists include: Camperdown Cellars stores (NSW); Leo's Fine Food & Wine stores (Vic).