So in 2026, instead of reaching automatically for something French “because it feels safer”, consider this: Australian wine has never been better, more diverse or more drinkable. And it’s right here, waiting politely.
10 Australian wines to drink in 2026 (all $30–$50, all excellent)
Thistledown Thorny Devil Grenache – McLaren Vale
Grenache at its most persuasive: pale, perfumed, quietly confident. Red berries, savoury spice, and a finish that lingers just long enough to make you smug. This is not a shouty red – it’s a knowing smile.
Price: $25-30
Vasse Felix ‘Filius’ Chardonnay – Margaret River
Elegant, citrus-driven and beautifully balanced, this Chardonnay proves once and for all that oak is a seasoning, not a lifestyle choice. Think lemon curd, white peach and minerality rather than buttered toast.
Price: $25–$30
Stefano Lubiana Brut Reserve Sparkling – Tasmania
Tasmania does sparkling frighteningly well, and this is proof. Fine bubbles, green apple, toasted brioche and enough seriousness to justify opening it on a Tuesday “just because”.
Price: $45–$50
Tar & Roses Sangiovese – Central Victoria
Bright, cherry-fruited and refreshing in a way that makes you want another sip immediately. Brilliant with food, forgiving without it. The wine equivalent of a good dinner guest – lively, charming, not exhausting.
Price: $25–$30
Bondar Rosé – McLaren Vale
Rosé for grown-ups. Dry, savoury and structured, with strawberry, herbs and just enough grip to stop it being frivolous. This is not a poolside novelty – it’s a serious wine that happens to be pink.
Price: $25–$30
Shaw + Smith Shiraz – Adelaide Hills
Cool-climate Shiraz that behaves itself beautifully. Pepper, dark berries, fine tannins and no sense of excess. Perfect for people who like red wine but don’t want to wrestle it.
Price: $45–$50
Brokenwood Semillon – Hunter Valley
Crisp, zesty and gloriously refreshing, with citrus bite and whisper-thin texture. It’s the sort of wine that makes you feel clever for choosing it – especially with seafood or on a warm evening.
Price: $25–$30
Dalrymple Pinot Noir – Tasmania
Silky, savoury and understated, with red fruit, forest floor and gentle spice. Pinot that doesn’t demand attention but earns it anyway. Elegant rather than showy — which is always preferable.
Price: $40–$45
Pike & Joyce ‘The Hill’ Riesling – Adelaide Hills
Electric acidity, lime zest and that wonderful Riesling purity that makes your mouth water just thinking about it. Bone dry, utterly refreshing and criminally underrated as a dinner wine.
Price: $30–$35
Yalumba ‘The Signature’ Cabernet Shiraz – Barossa
A classic done properly. Rich but controlled, layered but approachable. Blackcurrant, spice, polished tannins and a sense of confidence that only comes from knowing exactly what you are.
Price: $60–$65
Dining and Cooking