Wine Merchant Eralde came to Australia from Spain for a “three-month” trip. Ten years later, he’s still here – and still learning about wine.
Eralde is a strong believer in a wine being delicious and also available at a good price. The important thing to remember is that not every wine will tick all the boxes, and that’s okay. With so many varieties to choose from, it’s a good idea to keep exploring regions, grapes and styles, and getting to know different winemakers – don’t be afraid to veer off the beaten track because you might just find your next favourite. “I find the experience of exposing my palate to a particular price-point to be both humbling and exciting, and I recommend all my customers do the same,” he says. “Needless to say, you can be your own judge by sampling my picks for the best wines under $15 at Dan Murphy’s this month.”
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1. One For All Bubbly Moscato, Australia
Why should you try it?
Eralde admits this first suggestion might not be to everyone’s taste, but bear with him because this isn’t your mother’s moscato. “For me, moscato is one of those wines I enjoy when I want something light in both alcohol and flavour. One For All Bubbly Moscato is crispy, zingy and slightly fizzed – the perfect summer afternoon beverage, if you ask me.” Eralde believes moscato is a great introductory variety for those new to the world of wine – especially if you’re looking for something that’s kind on the wallet.
Tastes like?
This isn’t your typical super-sweet moscato; it’s crisp and light with a slight hint of sweetness, according to Eralde. “It has these lovely summery notes of ripe pears, nectarine and orange blossom that keep you coming back for another sip,” he says.
Sip it with?
Spicy cuisine fans unite! From Buffalo chicken wings and nduja to a chicken tikka masala that packs a punch, if a dish has some heat, it can absolutely be enjoyed with a glass of One For All Bubbly Moscato. Why? Wines with a bit of residual sugar are perfect for balancing the heat and quenching your thirst after spicy food.
2. Mockingbird Hill Clare Valley Riesling, Australia
Why should you try it?
When you think of Australian riesling, Clare Valley should be top of mind. The limestone soils in this region, combined with its cool nights, produce a unique style of riesling that’s typically medium-bodied with fruit richness and a long, lingering acid sensation. Mockingbird Hill has sourced premium parcels of grapes from across this region to create this fresh and elegant riesling. “This appeals to a wide range of palates,” says Eralde. “What I love about riesling is it’s always a safe bet if you aren’t sure what to purchase; grab a bottle for your next dinner party and everyone around the table will be impressed with your choice,” he adds.
Tastes like?
“I personally like its floral, citrus and fruity notes combined with the great acidity that follows – perfect for maximum refreshment on a hot day,” says Eralde. This wine can easily be opened this weekend or popped in a cellar over the medium term if you fancy (that’s five to seven years, FYI).
Sip it with?
In the spirit of summer, you can’t go past fish and chips from your local takeaway joint – throw in a couple of extra potato cakes for good measure. “You could also consider pairing this riesling with fish ceviche – don’t forget extra lime and chilli! – or freshly shucked oysters,” says Eralde. A lamb or beef vindaloo can also join the menu line-up if you’re feeling so inclined.
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3. Elephant In The Room Pinot Gris, Australia
Why should you try it?
“This wine is quite approachable and versatile making it a perfect candidate alongside a variety of entrees or on its own as an aperitif. Most pinot gris on the market is light and zesty in comparison to this one, which contains riper aromatics and a slightly textural component that makes it more appealing, in my opinion,” explains Eralde. This is a big, bold drop from the team at Elephant In The Room, which prides itself on full-bodied and mouth-filling wines created with grapes from premium vineyards and partially matured in classic French oak. The result? Maximum pleasure. You only have to crack a bottle of this pinot gris to experience what Eralde is talking about.
Tastes like?
“It feels freshly textured and approachable with notes of golden apple, pear and citrus fruit. I’m quite impressed with how expressive the wine can be simply by giving it a whiff – it’s bold without losing vibrancy,” explains Eralde.
Sip it with?
“This pairs really well with a dish like salt and pepper calamari or a bowl of sweet potato chips. You could also grab a bottle next time you’re roasting a chicken or tossing insalata nizzarda together [also known as salad niçoise],” says Eralde.
4. Listel Grains de Gris Rosé, France
Why should you try it?
“The most unique trait of this wine is that during the production process it has minimal time in contact with the grape skins, allowing the freshness and lightness of the wine to be the co-protagonists while keeping the tannin levels low,” explains Eralde. This particular rosé is a ‘vin gris’ which is a term for a very light rosé wine made from red grapes. “For me, Listel Grains de Gris Rosé has a sense of occasion and is a delightful companion to both formal and casual gatherings – I especially love enjoying a glass of it on a picnic,” says Eralde.
Tastes like?
“This rosé feels fresh, crisp and dry from start to finish, featuring floral and fruity aromas, which make sipping it a pleasant experience for the senses,” explains Eralde. Think of it as a bottle brimming with citrus and red berry bouquet flavours perfect for long, languid afternoons.
Sip it with?
Snacks! Yep, bring out your best party snacks when you open a bottle of Listel Grains de Gris Rosé. “Light snacks, finger food – from party pies to arancini balls – prawns and soft cheeses all play nicely with this drop,” says Eralde.
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5. Nero Oro Nero d’Avola Appassimento, Italy
Why should you try it?
“Nero d’Avola is one of the often forgotten grapes, but it shouldn’t be! It’s one of Italy’s most important indigenous red grape varieties and the perfect choice for seasoned red wine drinkers as well as newcomers who like wine with a bold and distinctive character,” explains Eralde. “Some of the grapes used to make Neo Oro’s Nero d’Avola Appassimento have been deliberately left on the vine to undergo a process of dehydration to create a more concentrated flavour profile (known as ‘appassimento’). The result is an extra layer of complexity and intensity,” explains Eralde.
Tastes like?
“Rich, big and bold! It features blackberries, blackcurrants and plums with hints of herbs and spices,” says Eralde. This is a great choice if you love exploring wines with a substantial flavour profile yet great approachability. It has a noticeable mouthfeel and complex flavours that will keep you guessing (and sipping).
Sip it with
Pretty much anything you can barbecue, according to Eralde. It could be as simple as a piece of lamb or porterhouse steak, or you could even go Greek with gyros or moussaka. “Match this with your next meat-lover’s pizza and you’ll really be in for a treat!” he says.
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