Three whites to quench a thirst

"Quenching". Can it apply to wine? If you've been working in the garden on a warm day, a glass of wine isn't exactly a thirst-quencher. But some wines do have zip and life that make them seem ... quenching. Perhaps we should call them refreshing. White wines of good acidity, fresh character and lip-smacking balance refresh the palate, enlivening smell and taste. They don't weigh you down like big, powerful, or strongly oaky drops. Refreshing whites can come from zesty, aromatic grapes like riesling, or stylish aristocrats like chardonnay. Here are some to quench yourself with.

Tyrrell's Hunter Valley Semillon 2019, $23-$25

Score 89

Juicy, fuller style of Hunter semillon that offers appealing lemon tart and herbal aromas, ahead of a soft, ripe mouthful. Without the austerity of some youthful examples, it's fresh and fruity with mouth-watering balance. Screw cap; 11.5 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over three years.

Stockists include Vintage Cellars stores.

Craggy Range Te Muna Road Riesling 2019, $30-$33

Score 93

From Martinborough, New Zealand, this delicious riesling mixes apple, sweet/sour citrus and herbal aromas with a steely edge. Musk stick and peachy flavours are enhanced by a thread of sweetness and a zippy, lip-smacking finish. Screw cap; 12.5 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over six years plus.

Stockists include Moncur Cellars, Woollahra (NSW); Armadale Cellars, Armadale (Vic).

Oakridge Vineyard Series Henk Chardonnay 2017 $37-$40

Score 95

Superfine modern Yarra chardonnay. White stone fruit and grapefruity characters find easy harmony with light sulphide, vanilla bean and mineral notes. Succulent, poised and quietly complex with an ultra-long, tangy signature. Screw cap; 13.6 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over five years.

Stockists include Prince Wine Store, South Melbourne (Vic); Elizabeth Bay Cellars, Elizabeth Bay (NSW).