2025 Sutton Grange Fairbank Rose, Bendigo

A multiple Halliday award winner, and each year it just gets it so right – from the brilliant tea rose and salmon hues, the oh-so pretty spring floral aromas, musk and summer berries that transform into something deeper and more concentrated on the palate. It is very much a layered, complex young rosé, with additional savoury wild herbals and cranberry, and creamy mealy notes, yet it remains a wine filled with crunchy, bright acidity and life. With or without food, it's a star. Drink 2026–2029.

96 points Special Value Jeni Port for Halliday Wine Companion, March 2026 

Sutton Grange has been making one of Australia's most consistently admired rosés from their organically farmed granite slopes on Mount Alexander in Central Victoria. The Fairbank label takes its name from the original 19th century property, and the rosé has been the flagship expression of the range for many years, winning Halliday Rosé of the Year for the 2022, 2023 and 2024 vintages consecutively.

The blend is Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese with a small addition of Viognier. Whole bunch pressed, cold settled with grape solids retained, then transferred to old French barriques for fermentation to dryness. Malolactic fermentation is inhibited to keep the wine bright and fruit-forward. The oak adds creaminess and texture without weight.

Salmon rose in the glass, the nose is lifted and pretty, all spring blossom, musk, cranberry, wild strawberry and cherry. The palate is dry and lively with gentle creaminess through the mid-palate, spiced red fruit depth and a long, acid-driven finish. Serious rosé that doesn't take itself too seriously.

Keep things light and Mediterranean on the table, and you can't gro wrong: grilled prawns, a simple tomato and herb salad or soft fresh cheese. Equally good as an aperitif on a warm evening.

Drink now through 2027.