Going all in on moderation? These low-alcohol picks still bring all the flavour.
Every year, right about now, many of us make the same well-intentioned resolutions that revolve around making a few lifestyle changes. But what if instead of a short-term switch, we made some longer-lasting shifts? And what if we told you they could still involve great wine?
For 2026, we’re buddying up with bottles that are lower in alcohol, easier on the wallet and genuinely delicious. Yes, it can be done. Here are six cracking drops to get you started.
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1. Chapel Hill Enlightened Pinot Grigio: 9% ABV
We’ve seen the memes. We know the stereotypes. And yes, pinot grigio does get a solid run from mums over 40. Fair play. But jokes aside, pinot grigio is also a ripper summer wine. Bright, fresh, wildly food-friendly and super easy to drink. Cheese? Yep. Fish? Absolutely. Veggies? All day. Chapel Hill’s take is clean and zippy, with green pear and mandarin peel doing most of the heavy lifting. Best bit? A very tidy 9% ABV – moderate, refreshing and still properly satisfying.
Where to take it: Share a bottle with your favourite mum over 40. This could be a mate, an aunt or your go-to work legend. They’ll rate it highly.
2. Petaluma Lumos Sauvignon Blanc: 9.9% ABV
Petaluma is iconic in Australian wine – right up there with Penfolds herself (wine purists, please don’t @ us). And this, the Lumos Sauvignon Blanc, is their lighter number that’s tailor-made for the warmer months. It’s fresh, subtle and elegant, with just enough zip to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of sauv that quietly impresses – perfect for a lazy Friday arvo paired with a low-effort, high-reward cheese plate.
Where to take it: Weeknight night dinners at your favourite BYO, or with those cheeky cheese platters at home.
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3. Rougie Vie Pinot Rosé: 9% ABV
Rosé might’ve taken a recent back seat but, as we know, trends are cyclical (lowriders be gone). And we’re calling it now: 2026 is the year of the rosé renaissance. Rougie Vie’s Pinot Rosé is light on alcohol but big on charm. Think soft berries, fresh watermelon, strawberry and red currant aromas, with a little grapefruit zip on the finish. Basically, this is a pink fruit bowl in a glass. Serve it chilled, sip freely, repeat as required.
Where to take it: Anywhere there’s finger food, especially if duck pancakes are involved.
4. Grant Burge Lighter PNC Sparkling: 7.5% ABV
You can’t have a wine list without a sparkling, we say, and this one seriously punches above its weight. Made from pinot noir and chardonnay sourced from cool-climate regions like the Adelaide Hills, Eden Valley and Alpine Valleys, this lighter-style sparkler brings finesse, freshness and proper structure. There are delicate yet intense flavours, crisp natural acidity and that lean, elegant profile you want in a quality sparkling. And all at a very friendly 7.5% ABV.
Where to take it: Any occasion that calls for bubbles, which, frankly, is most of them.
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5. Sorbet Lemon Prosecco: 9% ABV
You really can have your ice cream and drink it, too. Say hello to Sorbet Lemon Prosecco, a fresh, playful twist on fizz that feels made for sunshine. Crisp and balanced, it delivers zesty lemon, bright citrus and a hint of tropical fruit. Aromas leap from the glass with fresh lemon juice, finishing clean with lingering citrus. Chill it, pour it and you’re set. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, mix up a Sgroppino for a touch of Italian intrigue.
Where to take it: Start with this aperitif and suddenly the long lunch has legs. It’s cool, bubbly and built for stretching a summer sesh well beyond polite hours.
6. Y Series Lighter Shiraz: 8% ABV
Y Series Lighter Shiraz brings all the good stuff without the heavy lifting. Expect inviting aromas of chocolate and cherry, followed by fresh wild berry flavours that keep things juicy and easy going. Sitting pretty at just 8% ABV, it’s made for afternoons that drift into evenings. Pair it with triple-cheese toasties, a couch you’re not planning to leave and a lazy Sunday that doesn’t ask too much of you at all.
Where to take it: Aside from the couch, this one’s built for the barbecue – think big cuts, smoke in the air, sauces flying and all the trimmings doing their thing. Hot tip: dark clothes only.
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