Three quality no-fuss drops that fit the budget

Many household budgets are under strain at the moment. Times can be tough for those who consider a glass of easy-drinking wine a staple, and at meal times many believe that even the simplest of fare can benefit from an appropriate glass of something on the side. Thankfully many Australian wineries still provide no-fuss drops that offer engaging personality and good quality in the $10-$20 price range. Here are a few to consider.

Hesketh Lost Weekend Limestone Coast Chardonnay 2019, $13-$15

Score: 87

A pale, fresh, appetising chardonnay that introduces itself with a delicate aroma of lemon and peach, oak not apparent. Lightly yeasty, leesy threads follow through the succulent palate, to a clean, quenching finish. Very easy drinking. Screw cap; 12.5 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? No.

Stockists include: Le Pont Wine Store, Milson's Point (NSW); Gum Tree Good Food, Albert Park, South Yarra and Middle Park (Vic).

West Cape Howe Shiraz 2018, $15-$17

Score: 88

This young WA shiraz looks the goods with deep, dense purplish colour. It smells of pepper, dark berries and licorice, ahead of a spicy, medium-weight palate backed by dry, firm tannins. Good value. Screw cap; 14.5 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over three years.

Stockists include: Ultimo Red Bottle, Ultimo (NSW); Randall the Wine Merchant, Collingwood (Vic).

Longhop Old Vine Grenache 2019, $18-$20

Score: 89

From 1950s-planted Adelaide Plains vines, this generously built youngster centres on generous red berry, milk chocolate and spiced biscuit characters. Ripely fruited, middleweight and quite opulent, it's balanced nicely by ripe tannins. Screw cap; 14.5 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over three years.

Stockists include: Different Drop, Ultimo (NSW); Toscano's, Kew (Vic).