Spring Entertaining Guide: Fabulous Wines Under $50

Spring calls for long lunches, garden parties, and sparkling afternoons shared with good company — and a good bottle (or two). Whether you’re planning an alfresco feast, a picnic in the park, or simply want to impress without blowing the budget, these standout wines — all under $50 — are perfect for entertaining this season.

Effortless Elegance: Premium Picks for Spring Soirées ($40–$45)

Nautilus Cuvée Marlborough Brut NV – $45

Celebrate in style with this refined sparkling from New Zealand’s Marlborough region. Pale straw in colour with a fine bead and creamy mousse, it blends richness and finesse. Expect biscuity complexity, crisp acidity and a lingering, dry finish — perfect for aperitif hour or a seafood platter.

2024 Hand Picked Shiraz – $45

Vibrant red berries, subtle spice, and a smooth, clean finish define this lively Shiraz. Ideal for outdoor dinner parties, it strikes a beautiful balance of structure and approachability.

Marnong Estate 2025 Single Vineyard Pinot Noir – $40

A medium-bodied and complex drop offering layers of wild strawberry, earthen spice, and silky tannins. It’s a sophisticated red that pairs beautifully with roasted duck, mushroom pasta or charcuterie.

Fresh & Fragrant Whites for Alfresco Lunches ($30–$35)

Marnong Estate 2024 Single Vineyard Fiano – $35

Textural and refreshing, this modern Italian varietal is made for long lunches. Expect grapefruit, saline minerality and a pithy citrus finish — divine with grilled seafood or fresh burrata salads.

Nautilus Sauvignon Blanc – $32

Marking 40 years of winemaking excellence, this Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc bursts with lemongrass, ripe grapefruit and lime zest. Its mouth-watering intensity makes it a classic pairing for spring salads and goat cheese.

Campbells Sparkling White – $30

Made from Chardonnay base wine with Charmat fermentation, this sparkling sings with citrus and crisp apple. Fresh, balanced and delightfully fun — the perfect aperitif for any celebration.

Vibrant All-Rounders for Picnics & Garden Gatherings ($19–$25)

Marnong Estate 2024 Estate Rosé – $25

A dry, savoury rosé with guava, strawberries and cream aromas, finishing with wild herbs and cherry fruits. Serve chilled alongside antipasto or fresh prawns.

Marnong Estate 2024 Estate Chardonnay – $25

Medium-bodied with pear, lemon and nutmeg spice. Its stony minerality and pithy lemon rind notes make it a beautiful match for creamy pasta or roast chicken.

Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio – $25.99

A timeless favourite with a crisp, balanced profile. Fresh and elegant, it’s a wine that captures the lightness of spring. Perfect for alfresco sipping or pairing with seafood and salads.

[yellow tail] x Sophie Monk Prosecco & Prosecco Rosé – $19

Add sparkle to your celebrations with this fun, vibrant duo. Both feature bright fruit and fine bubbles — ideal for brunch mimosas or a light-hearted toast.

Peter Lehmann The Barossan Grenache Rosé – $20

Pretty in pink with notes of strawberries, white cherries and florals. This Barossa rosé is as elegant as it is easy-drinking — a picnic favourite.

Playful & Unexpected (under $20)

Patisserie Wines – $19 each

Newly launched and delightfully indulgent, this playful range is inspired by French desserts. From Raspberry Éclair Moscato to Passionfruit Friand Sauvignon Blanc and Pineapple Madeline Pinot Gris, each bottle offers a touch of sweetness with a lively frizzante fizz — perfect for garden parties, girls’ nights or creative cocktails.

Maretti Italia Range – $17.99 each

Transport your guests to Italy with this new collection sourced from Pavia and Puglia. Featuring easy-drinking Pinot Grigio, Rosé and Sangiovese, these wines deliver freshness, flavour and Italian flair — all at an unbeatable price.

Rewild Wines – from $9.99

Eco-conscious entertaining never looked so good. 100% vegan and sustainably crafted, Rewild’s range offers great value and flavour. Their clever bagnums (1.5L packs) are changing the game — keeping wine fresh for up to 30 days once opened. Perfect for picnics, parties and planet-friendly pours.

From fresh and floral whites to fun, fizzy rosés, these affordable Australian and international favourites prove you don’t have to spend big to pour something special. So grab a glass, gather your friends, and let the sunshine (and wine) flow.