Aussie Artisan Wine

I spoke to William Downie, a wine maker from Victoria, and asked him if an unsophisticated person like myself could choose a good wine based on the label. Downie thinks so: “In the new world if you don't know anything about wine then choosing it based on a picture has a level of integrity. It usually gives you a feeling of the wine makers aesthetic and personal tastes.”

Downing believes current wine trends in Australia are becoming more diverse and progressive. “We are pushing boundaries and celebrating quirky wines that are less traditional and even faulted.” Witness Point Pinot Noir sits comfortably in this category.

For: Arty types

The label says; 'Two Italian Boys, Pick Us Up Tonight,' so I bought it purely as a joke. But when I went to the counter the seller gave me an approving nod which made me feel like I knew what I was doing. These two Italian boys from New South Wales are making wines based on traditional Italian styles, light and good to drink with food and friends. It's a wine made with the idea that drinking is about being social.

For: Party people. You will have to buy more than one bottle of this.

I bought this wine to try out an organic option. It's preservative- and chemical-free and made with wild, naturally fermented yeasts. It's made by a husband and wife duo who are into organics and bio-dynamics. Their goal is to tread lightly on the earth. They live and work on their vineyard and consider themselves to be 'Lo-Fi' natural growers.

For: The Greens.

A festive label, this wine was made in Tasmania by Nick Glaetzer, one of the youngest and most celebrated Australian wine makers. This red is inspired by the French Nouveau wines. It's unique because there's no long fermentation process. Grow it. Press it. Drink it.

For: Those who want instant gratification.

I bought this because it looked trustworthy and traditional. Like something your grandparents would drink during the Christmas holidays. It's also suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

For: The safe and reliable.