Steals: 5 great wines from across the globe, all under $15

Why should you try it?

First stop Italy! Ciao! Let’s crack this bottle and experience its lively froth followed by a nose full of strong candied fruit and sweet flower hints. This can be enjoyed as an aperitif or throughout an entire meal, and according to Raphael, it tastes as good as wines twice its price. “It's got everything you want in a very nice prosecco. I'm not alone in thinking this – it won a gold medal at the 2021 Prosecco Masters.”

Tastes like?

“Lemon and peach – I also get a hint of melon as well. It's super fresh with just a touch of a sweet finish,” says Raphael.

Sip it with?

This is a unique drop that can be enjoyed with both sweet and savoury dishes. If you try it alongside a dessert, opt for a dish that’s not overly sweet – Raphael suggests a crumble or an apple pie. For a savoury match: “Pissaladiere, which is a kind of onion and anchovy pizza from my hometown.” Delicious!

Why should you try it?

The wines of the Languedoc (a historical coastal region in southern France) have come a long way over the years and are now producing some of the best value wines anywhere. “It’s a fantastic region to rediscover due to the variety and quality of its very affordable wines,” explains Raphael. “Paul Mas wines deserve special mention, as this producer has really done a lot to get this huge wine region back on the map. I've also met Mr Mas – he’s a really nice guy.”

Tastes like?

Mango meets pineapple with a subtle creamy vanilla twist. There’s a bit happening here, but in an interesting and unexpected way – definitely worth picking up a bottle from your local Dan Murphy’s and seeing what we mean.

Sip it with?

Sunday roast – more specifically, roast chicken – that’s Raphael’s pick. “It would also really shine mid-week with takeaway sushi when life gets too hectic to cook.” We are absolutely on board with this. Can relate.

Why should you try it?

“Back to Portugal, because there are so many incredible wines coming out of there!” Raphael says. “The wines are less famous compared to ones from neighbouring countries like France or Spain, but are just as nice.” If you’re one of those people who wanders down the aisle of your local bottle shop picking wine purely because the label is eye-catching or cool, then we think you’ll enjoy this one. If you couldn’t care less about the label and prefer to know its stats, then you’ll be pleased to know it’s a satisfying medium-bodied red made from a blend of tempranillo (tinto roriz), castelao and touriga nacional.

Tastes like?

“Not too big, not too light – just right! It's a blend with so many layers,” says Raphael. You’ll notice cherry, blueberry and blackberry with some dried thyme in this smooth, softly finished wine.

Sip it with?

A true all-rounder, this is a wine that can be enjoyed with most food. Raphael says if you want to team with the theme of all things Portugal, then salada de polvo (octopus salad) is a winner. “You could take inspiration from the label and have it with grilled chourico (chorizo) sausage – and don’t forget the roast peppers as a side.” Noted.