Three wines to suit an Australian Christmas menu
If you're going to put time and effort into creating this magnificent Christmas feast, make sure you've got the beverages to match.
These three Aussie wines not only suit an Australian Christmas menu, but our climate, too.
Aristotelis Ke Anthoula 2022 Sonnyboy, Far South Coast, NSW, $39
This tongue-in-cheek nod to the ice block is a fun, skinsy, adult's-only treat. The zibibbo and vermentino (sourced from South Australia's Riverland) smacks of orange zest and wild aromatics. Great with prawns on the barbie. Winemakers Tony Zafirakos and Maddison Park-Neilson are ones to watch. What started as natural wine made by Greek migrants in a garage during the 1980s is now an exciting small-batch business.
Find it at akea.wine
2021 Hoddles Creek 1er Yarra Valley Chardonnay, Yarra Valley, Victoria, $65
The Christmas crackers are popping, grandpa is telling festive jokes with gusto and the maple Christmas glazed chicken has arrived at the table. It's chaos. Calm the storm with a stunning chardonnay. The D'Anna family's top tier 1er is the liquid equivalent of a mic drop. There's lemon pith, spice, depth … such class, such balance. Winner, winner, chicken dinner. 13.2 per cent alcohol.
Find it at hoddlescreekestate.com.au
2022 Frogmore Creek Iced Riesling, Tasmania, $34
You could go for a classic fortified but save that for the armchair when you're re-watching Home Alone or Die Hard. Instead, accompany the twist on a fruit-driven pav with an iced riesling. It's sweet but the fresh, head-snapping acidity keeps it all in check. Expect honey aromas, florals and a little lychee. Iced wine is made when grapes naturally freeze in the vineyard – like a little Christmas miracle. 6.2 per cent alcohol.
Find it at frogmorecreek.com.au
