Home Culture When life gives you lemons… drink Australian wine

When life gives you lemons… drink Australian wine

March 1, 2026 4:44 pm

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As I mentioned in last month’s column, I’m turning my not-quite-as-planned new year into something positive – 60 food and drink challenges now that I have (almost) hit the big 6-0, split into five headers.

Reading 12 food and drink books, and listening to podcasts, has got off to what I’ll generously call a “slow start” (read: zilch). But eating in 12 different restaurants, experiencing 12 food and cultural events, and cooking 12 different recipes? Flying.

My actual birthday was spent at the Australia & New Zealand Wine Trade Tasting at the Sheraton Grand Hotel – and what a way to start my 60th year. The day kicked off at 10.30 am with a masterclass led by two Masters of Wine, Emma Symington and Rebecca Gibb, who delivered a fascinating, illuminating and genuinely hilarious double act. Who knew Australia is larger than the moon? Or that the pioneer of Marlborough wines in New Zealand hailed from Dundee?

From there, I threw myself into tasting a selection of the 450 wines from 138 producers across 47 regions and 22 grape varieties – from international superstars to small boutique newcomers. All in the name of research, naturally.

Coming up in March: 100 best Australian Wines Festival with Matthew Jukes

That birthday tasting set me up beautifully for the next event on my calendar: the 100 Best Australian Wines Festival Showcase with Matthew Jukes, one of the leading authorities on Australian wine. It takes place on 21 March at Edinburgh Academy on Henderson Row, with two sessions to choose from: 12-3 pm and 4-7 pm.

Wine Events Scotland
Matthew Jukes

Pic Phil Wilkinson

It’s a brilliant opportunity to taste 50 award-winning, fresh, modern-style Australian wines under one roof – sparkling wines, elegant Chardonnays, aromatic Rieslings, delicate Pinots, and irresistible Cabernets. There really is something for everyone. And there should be nothing stuffy about it. The more you taste, the more you learn, and the more you enjoy.

My top tips for getting the most from a wine fair

Walking into a large tasting can feel daunting. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Don’t arrive on an empty stomach. It’s a marathon, not a sprint – pace yourself and enjoy sensibly.
You don’t have to swallow. Use the spittoons. Your head will thank you for it.
Check the exhibitor list beforehand. If there’s a producer you’re keen to meet or a wine you’re desperate to try, start there, then circle back to your favourites at the end.
On arrival, take five minutes to make a game plan. Then talk to the producers – they’re incredibly knowledgeable and will steer you well.
Tasting order is flexible. The traditional sequence runs sparkling → light whites → full whites → rosé → light reds → full reds → dessert wines. But Diana Thompson of Wine Events Scotland says “It’s up to the individual.” In fact, as a seasoned pro who attends and organises many trade and consumer events, she will often start with reds first, as the palate can get jaded after many wines and it can sometimes be easier to taste a fresh white after the reds than to do it the other way round. Trust your instincts.
Remember the 5 S’s: See (colour and clarity), Swirl (aerate to release aromas), Sniff (identify scents), Sip (coat the palate), Savour (enjoy the finish). Simple, but effective.
Take notes and snap a photo of the label. The app Vivino is great for this – with 50 wines on show, memory alone won’t cut it.
Try something new. We all default to what we know, but wine fairs are made for discovery. Even if you think you hate a particular grape, give it a go. (For the record, no one will ever convince me to love a Sauvignon Blanc – too acidic and smells like cats’ pee – but a big, buttery Chardonnay? Always.)
Tell the producer what you do and don’t like. Taste is completely subjective, and no one will judge you for it.
Cleanse the palate with a cracker or a bite of cheese. I’m known for carrying a small box of cheese bites – particularly good with the reds.
Reset the nose by sniffing coffee beans or the crease of your elbow. Yes, really – it works.
Attend a masterclass. A chance to sit down, learn from the experts, and catch your breath. Well worth it.