2024 S.C. Pannell Montepulciano

This is Italian-style drinking with an Aussie accent so big on flavour, full of juicy dark fruit and made to put a smile on your face. It's rich and generous up front, then turns savoury and fresh as you keep drinking, making it a cracking alternative for anyone who usually reaches straight for Shiraz or Cabernet. It's different without being difficult, seriously delicious and exactly the kind of wine we love finding, which is why it made the cut.

What to eat with it?

Get the big pot out. Bolognese, slow-cooked ragu, lasagne, pizza or anything rich and tomatoey will absolutely sing with this.

Drink now or later?

It's made to be enjoyed now, so there's no need to wait. But if a bottle happens to survive, it'll comfortably sit in the cellar for around five years.