16 DAYS AGO • 3 MIN READ

💎 A Rosé With A Stunning View 🏞️

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Vine In The Rough

Unearthing the best wines under $15, without the snooty wine talk. We’re here to prove that you don’t need a sommelier certification to enjoy a great bottle. From weeknight sips to dinner party picks, this is your friendly, down-to-earth newsletter in search for impressive yet affordable wines…and the ultimate "vine in the rough".

💎 A Stunning Gem 💎

If you’re still giving the light pink section of the bottle shop a hard pass, it’s time to reconsider. Some bottles just demand attention, and today's rosé is one of them. It looks absolutely stunning, that’s why we grabbed it. But it tastes great too!

For $12 at Dan Murphy’s, it fit nicely within our under-$15 mission and definitely has a spot in our favourites now.

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A Rosé With A View 🏞️

🍷 Mateus Rosé (NV)

Sometimes you pick a wine because it looks fancy. And sometimes, you pick a wine because the bottle is just that good. Mateus Rosé nails both. The uniquely curved bottle is pure Hollywood - striking enough to turn heads at a hens’ party, but not so flashy that it looks out of place at Sunday brunch. It also makes a brilliant gift if the budget calls for it. No one’s chucking this into the re-gift pile with the supermarket Shiraz and candle set.

But it’s not just a pretty face - this rosé comes from Portugal, a country that knows a thing or two about making good wine (and great custard tarts). And while we may not have Portugal’s cobblestone streets and old-world charm, it's almost as if this drop was made for Australian conditions.

So how does it actually taste? It’s bright, fresh, and downright charming. Think red berry flavours, a touch of floral, and just a hint of fizz to keep things lively. Simply put, it’s fun, easy drinking with a crisp, refreshing finish. If we were scoring on taste alone, it’d probably land around a 7.5, but thanks to the whole experience - the bottle, the vibe, the easy drinkability - it’s getting bumped up an extra point. That’s the power of presentation, folks!

Pairing-wise, this rosé can hold its own with a whole range of cuisines, but we reckon it shines with spicy dishes. Portuguese piri piri chicken? (And yes, that is the correct spelling for Portuguese piri piri) Thai green curry? Absolutely. The slight sweetness and fresh finish cut through the heat like a dream. Just don’t forget to chill it slightly before serving.

At the end of the day, the Mateus Rosé delivers in both looks and taste. Whether you’re planning a party, need a great last-minute gift, or just want to elevate your Wednesday night dinner, this one’s got you covered. And at $12 (for a limited time), it’s the kind of find that makes you feel like you’ve outsmarted the wine aisle.

VITR Official Score: 8.5 / 10

👍 Reality vs Perception: Looks expensive, drinks effortlessly, and is an absolute steal at $12. Those that know of this drop won't be fooled, but many others will.

👩‍🎨 Label Aesthetics: Hollywood starlet vibes. This bottle could land a leading role in a movie.

👴 Comparison to Nonno’s Home Brew: It's almost as far as you can get from Nonno's brew, but he would definitely save the bottle to reuse it.

🪩 Fit for an Engagement Party: Abso-bloody-lutely! Classy, stylish, and won’t send you broke. Maybe the best option we've reviewed for this purpose.

🤑 Keep the Change: Not much change with this one, but the $3 can go towards the curry puffs entree with your Thai takeaway.


Real Talk

📖 Fake It 'Til You Make It

Balthazar: A wine bottle so big, you’ll need a mate to help pour it. Holds 12 litres - basically a weekend supply…or a very ambitious Tuesday.

💡 Sip Tip

Hold It Right: Grip the stem, not the bowl unless you fancy turning your wine into lukewarm disappointment. Anything else and it will look like you have no idea.

🍿 Sip & Snack

Pinot & Chips w/ Gravy: The earthy vibes of Pinot Noir and the rich, salty goodness of gravy? A match made in snack heaven.


Until Next Week, Cheers 🍷

Mateus Rosé: proof that sometimes, you really can judge a wine by its bottle. Got a recommendation for us? Hit reply and let us know!

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Vine In The Rough

Unearthing the best wines under $15, without the snooty wine talk. We’re here to prove that you don’t need a sommelier certification to enjoy a great bottle. From weeknight sips to dinner party picks, this is your friendly, down-to-earth newsletter in search for impressive yet affordable wines…and the ultimate "vine in the rough".