Tis the Season to Be Jolly: Summer Sips & Easy Entertaining for Parents Who’ve Earned It

Forget the frantic shopping lists and last-minute runs to the bottle shop — this Christmas, it’s all about slowing down, turning up the tunes, and celebrating with good friends, great food, and even better wine. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, coastal getaway, or an afternoon grazing session while the kids run wild, we’ve rounded up the perfect drops to toast the season (and your sanity).

For the Seafood Spread: Crisp Whites That Sing Summer

If your festive table leans toward prawns, oysters, and fresh salads, reach for something clean, light, and citrus-forward.
Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio is a crowd favourite — think zesty apple and pear notes that cut through rich seafood and pair beautifully with white meats and soft cheeses. It’s the kind of wine that makes even a simple grilled fish feel restaurant-worthy.
If you prefer something with more aromatic flair, Nautilus Estate Sauvignon Blanc delivers bold grapefruit and lemongrass notes with a refreshing, mouth-watering finish. Serve it chilled with a big summer salad or seafood platter, and watch it disappear faster than the kids’ pavlova toppings.

For Long Lunches & Afternoon Grazing

When it comes to sharing plates, antipasto boards, or chicken dishes, Little Giant Pinot Gris hits the perfect balance — fresh, fruity, and just crisp enough to refresh between bites of brie or salty prosciutto.
If you love a hint of adventure, Rewild Fiano is a sunshine-in-a-glass kind of wine — soft, juicy, and bursting with stone fruit. It’s affordable, crowd-pleasing, and great for gifting to that friend who always hosts (and never lets you do the washing up).

For Sweet Endings & Dessert Lovers

Not all Chardonnays are created equal — and Patisserie Crème Brûlée Chardonnay proves it. Think vanilla custard, caramelised sugar, and baked stone fruit in one indulgent sip. It’s the ideal companion for Christmas pudding, pavlova, or simply enjoyed solo while wrapping presents at midnight.

For Sparkling Celebrations & Toasts

Every party needs a little sparkle, and Santa Margherita Prosecco Superiore sets the mood perfectly. Its delicate peach blossom aroma and clean finish make it ideal as an aperitif or paired with light desserts. For something with a touch of luxury, Marnong Estate Blanc de Blancs adds that premium edge to your Christmas table — with elegant notes of apple and brioche that make every toast feel special.

For Backyard BBQs & Summer Soirées

Rosé season is officially here, and Marnong Estate Rosé is summer bottled — vibrant, refreshing, and full of strawberry-and-cream notes that practically demand sunshine and laughter. Pair it with fresh prawns, grilled veggies, or even a festive grazing board for an effortless alfresco vibe.

Entertaining Made Easy

Summer entertaining doesn’t have to mean hours in the kitchen. Pair your wine choices with simple yet delicious recipes — fresh seafood skewers, mango and burrata salad, or barbecued chicken with herbs. Add a few fairy lights, an easy playlist, and a good bottle (or three), and you’ve officially nailed Christmas hosting, parent-style.

Because at the end of the year, when the kids are finally asleep and the wrapping paper’s been cleared away, nothing says “we did it” like a glass of something chilled and the kind of laughter that only comes from friends who get it.