I don’t mean to put myself in the limelight, but if there was a Nobel Prize for how to party, and what to drink at them, I reckon I’d be in for a shot. That being said, my version of a good time mightn’t be as popular as I think. So while I’m trying to talk people into obscure grape varieties or the merits of vermouth matured in goat bladders, people are feigning interest, looking around for something they actually want to drink, or dropping smoke bombs and leaving the party. Real parties are where everyone is having a good time, not just the wine wanker standing on the table delivering a sermon from up high. I can however put on a more considered hat, and apply the practical understanding of my 15-plus years tasting, writing and selecting wines, with more judicious thinking. Sparkling wines, well, they’re a given, but if you were to ask me what’s in my cellar for all-round party times I’d always start with rosé. The cool, gently savoury rosés produced in the south of France, from Italy-originating grape varieties, or from artisan Australian producers, are usually my go-to. Whites should be of a similar ilk – think crisp, dry, aromatic and thirst-quenching. Fitting the bill are southern Italian white grapes and blends, Australian riesling or semillon, and, for something different, go for seafood-friendly, tangy-fresh whites from the Loire Valley in France. Though so many people love big reds, they tend to anaesthetise guests, particularly when so much celebrating is done on warm days. You’re better off diving into light- to medium-bodied red wines, and then giving them a quick dunk in an esky before serving. Stock up on Beaujolais, ‘joven-style’ Spanish reds or chilled Aussie grenache.
Mike Bennie shares his top tipples beyond bubbles for summer drinking, whether it’s a relaxed picnic or elegant soiree.