food-culture
Image Credit: The Vault
Red wine, white wine and even something for the holiday season.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commision.
Image Credit: The Vault
Red wine, white wine and even something for the holiday season.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commision.
If you frequent the Richmond area, chances are you’re already familiar with Lenny’s Wine Room on Lennox Street. The Style-ish favourite has an enviably well-curated wine selection, which is why we’ve enlisted Kirra Pemberton, Owner of Lenny’s, to be our wine fairy godmother. We asked her to offer some advice to help us all look like wine connoisseurs at our next dinner party or event. After all, if you can’t take a tip from a wine bar owner, who can you rely on?
We asked Kirra for her recommendations on wines for different occasions, from the best wine for a long lunch to the best wine to drink when it’s raining outside or the vino to invest in when you’re feeling a little bit fancy. With the festive season around the corner, we also asked Kirra for some tips on the best wine to bring to events, including Friendsmas, family lunch and Christmas Eve. When it comes to wine, these are recommendations you know you can rely on. Keep scrolling for the top tips from a wine connoisseur.
Best classic red:
“Pinot noir is always a safe choice with my friends, and this Milton Pinot Noir ($45) pick couldn’t be more perfect: a cool-climate, light-bodied pinot noir from Tasmania that keeps you feeling warm and cosy.”
Best fun red:
“Now that spring is here, Table Wines Expresso Rosso ($31) is the perfect bottle to keep chilled for a sunny Melbourne afternoon. A fresh blend of Nero and vermentino, this wine is made for easy drinking.”
Best for something a little more special:
“Patrick Underwood Nebbiolo ($58) is perfect wine for a date night or something a little special. When our go-to steak night at the Builders Arms in Collingwood was fully booked, we decided to create our own at home, opening a bottle of this nebbiolo to accompany our meal. It’s medium-bodied and not too sweet; perfect for a night in.”
Best for when it’s pouring rain outside (which still happens in Melbourne spring):
“Lately, it’s been the 2023 Minim Sangiovese ($40), with cherry, raspberry, and a little bit of spice. It comes from the Heathcote region in Victoria, known for its delicious reds.The best part is, it’s made with sustainable vineyard practices, hand-harvested grapes, and thoughtful fermentation. No mass production, just small-batch wine made with care.”
Image Credit: The Vault
Image Credit: The Vault
Best for Friendsmas:
“I’m bringing one of my favourite pat-nats: Konpira Maru Mt Midoriyama Classic Edition 2026 ($30). Light, fuzzy and spritzy with bright stone fruit and citrus notes and a touch of tartness, it’s the perfect wine to share with friends.”
Best for family Christmas lunch:
“I’m bringing a crowd-pleaser that suits everyone at the table, from my grandma to my sister: Domaine Gueguen Bourgogne Aligoté ($58). Crisp and elegant with subtle citrus and green apple notes, it’s a touch fancier than your usual pour, perfect for a special occasion.”
Best for Christmas Eve:
“My Christmas Eve pick would be Jauma Like Rain Drops, Ganache ($38). A light, chilled red with warming notes of cinnamon and festive spices, the kind that makes you feel like Christmas is just around the corner.”
Best for a long lunch:
“Lately, my choice has been bubbles. Usually saved for special occasions, but honestly, a long lunch feels like a celebration enough. At a recent Sunday lunch at Carnation Canteen in Fitzroy, we went for the André Delorme Blanc de Blancs ($34.99). Crisp, refreshing, and the perfect match for the food, it kept the conversation flowing all afternoon.”
