As summer rolls through, I like to put together a list of ‘go-to’ Aussie drinks – the kind of easygoing wines, beers and sparklings that make a bucket of prawns sing and charred meats at a barbecue a gourmet feast. These are the warm-weather tipples that not only crackle with revitalising energy, but seem to go with just about every meal.

The brews from McLaren Vale’s Swell Brewing provide a thirst-quenching, craft beer appeal. Their Swell Pale Ale (from $8/500ml) has enough complex flavour to keep beer aficionados happy, but drenches a parched palate with foamy freshness.

Summer is a season of celebrations and there are a great many sparkling wines now produced in Australia. Taltarni Brut Taché NV ($26) comes from the pedigree of a smaller producer, has a lightly pink colour and tastes frisky yet appley with just a hint of strawberry sweetness.

Warm days mean a couple of high performance white wines should always be on hand. I like Brokenwood Semillon 2011 ($20) as a staple – its lighter alcohol, lemony freshness and crisp finish keep me reaching back for more. While Quarry Hill North Block Dry White 2011 ($20) is a blend of sauvignon blanc and the less common savagnin variety, yielding a very fine, delicate white that tastes pure.

When it come to rosé, paler styles that taste a little drier are increasingly prevalent. A refreshing beauty made for everyday drinking is La Boheme Act Two Dry Pinot Rosé 2011 ($20).

Be sure to check out our favourite Australian white wines here or if reds are more your thing be sure to check out here.