Humans have adored wine for thousands of years, with historic records suggesting that winemaking existed as far back as 8,000 years ago.
As you might imagine, winemaking has come a long way in that time. Today, we understand considerably more about the soil science, varietals, production and storage of wine.
The result of such history and learning is some of the best wine in the world. Taste is of course a subjective measure, yet some wines are so sensational that the pure quality is impossible to ignore.
At 6HEAD, our dedication to providing an exceptional wine list for diners is paramount. Each glass and every bottle is hand-picked by our team, and their knowledge and skill shines through with our “3 Glass” rating from the Australian Wine List of the Year Awards.
According to our sommelier Alberto Labanoro, the trick of finding the ‘best’ wine is very much about finding the best wine for the situation. This means taking into account the dish on the table, the diner’s preferences, and of course the wine library itself.
With that in mind, here are our picks for some of the best wine in the world.
Red wines
Corton – Domaine de la Romanee Conti
No list of wine greats is complete without a mention of Domaine de la Romanee Conti, often known in wine circles simply as DRC. This legendary French winemaker is one of the most well-known and beloved wineries in the world.
The estate was once owned by a cousin of King Louis XV, and bottles regularly sell for thousands a piece. One such example is the Corton, a Pinot Noir of phenomenal quality that is “full-bodied, rich and layered, with lively acids and ripe, powdery tannins, it’s muscular and concentrated, with a seamless, enveloping profile and a long, expansive finish.”
The Caley - Yalumba
While France will always be renowned for its red wines, Australia has become one of the leading wine regions of the world. There is perhaps no greater example of our nation’s winemaking prowess than ‘The Caley’ by Yalumba. This blend of Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon and Barossa Shiraz fuses two of the great varieties from Australia’s top wine regions, and according to the Yalumba, it is the most impressive wine in their 168-year history.
The Caley’s tasting notes state “The palate reveals a very defined wine, cool and inviting. Medium to full depth with a densely layered structure and warmth delivering a prominent yet silky tannin profile.”
While regularly sold out online, The Caley is available to enjoy with your meal at 6HEAD.
White wines
Four Hearts – Hartford Court
The Unites States is proving itself to offer some sensational wines, and the Four Hearts Chardonnay by Hartford Court is an exceptional example.
The winemaker notes for this Californian drop say: “This highly textured wine displays aromas of yellow apple, honeysuckle and tangerine skin. Fresh flavors of Granny Smith apple and Meyer lemon are intertwined with layers of spice and crystallized ginger. A rich and weighty mid-palate is followed by a very long exotic, mineral-infused finish.”
It’s the perfect pairing for white fish dishes, creamy cheeses, and light pastas. Try it at 6HEAD during your next visit.
Wolta Wolta – Loosen Barry
The Wolta Wolta is another great drop from here in Australia, this time a collaboration between two of the country’s most well respected industry names – Peter Barry (of Jim Barry wines) and Ernst Loosen.
This Riesling was a passion project for the two winemakers, pulling together their skills and experience to create a German-style Riesling that delights on the tongue.
The tasting notes for this drop say: “The second it is in the mouth it has a silk like softness in its acid, the fruit weight starts early and drives deep through the palate. A richness to the fruit, starting with yellow melons exotic fruits moving through citrus brown lime and mineral/ wet slate.”
Find it at 6HEAD to experience this world-class wine for yourself.
Bubbly
Moet & Chandon
The bubbly the barely needs an introduction, Moet & Chandon has ruled the champagne world for centuries.
Created from more than 100 different wines, this blend comes together to offer a sparkling bouquet of freshness, with notes of green apple and citrus fruit. It’s the drink for celebrating, and a drink deserving of celebration.
Veuve Clicquot
Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin was just 27 years old when she took over the Clicquot business, and became so well known for her exacting standards and phenomenal champagne that she is today known as ‘La Grande Dame of Champagne’.
With the game-changing riddling process that removed the sediment from the wine, this bubbly has become one of the most beloved in the world. It has won countless awards, and sets the standard for premium champagne everywhere.
Which wines are smoothest to drink?
Smooth wines are any that simply flow on the tongue, perfectly balancing tannins and flavours to create something with decidedly low acid notes.
For white wines, that’s often a Chardonnay. For reds, Pinot Noir and Grenache are often considered to be very smooth.
Is there really a difference between cheap and expensive wine?
Absolutely. Even if you’re no wine connoisseur and couldn’t tell a Pinot Noir from a Merlot, you could still tell the difference between an entry-level supermarket wine and a premium pick from our wine list here at 6HEAD.
It can be hard to put your finger on, but think of it like the difference between a cup of bitter filter coffee and a barista-made flat wine. The ‘expensive’ version is smoother, tastier, and overall just more satisfying.
The good news is that you don’t need to invest in $100 bottles of wine to enjoy great vintages. There are plenty of excellent options on the more affordable end of the scale, even when dining out at a restaurant.
Explore premium wines at 6HEAD
At 6HEAD, we believe the right wine elevates your meal and dining experience into the realms of perfection.
Enjoy exploring our award-winning on your own terms, or make use of our sommeliers who can help you discover the best pairing for you and your meal.
