- 1. Sour Grapes Go behind the scenes in this fascinating documentary to see how wine merchant Rudy Kurniawan befriended the rich and powerful, created fakes of the world’s greatest wines and sold millions of dollars’ worth of fraudulent bottles through top auction houses. It’s an incredible watch.
- 2. A Good Year Even if you're not a fan of Russell Crowe, don't be put off this film, which follows his character who inherits a chateau and vineyard in France's Provence. The scenery is the real star of the show here, making this a serious trigger for wanderlust, and perhaps the ultimate daydream material for right now.
- 3. Sideways This classic film follows two friends on a road trip through Californian Wine country a week before one of them is set to marry. Plenty of drama unfolds along the way, as well as one famous scene that single-handedly devastated sales of merlot for years to follow.
- 4. Chateau Chunder: A Wine Revolution The Australian wine industry has significantly changed since its early days and this documentary puts that evolution under the spotlight. This engaging hour recaps its recent history and will remind you how far we’ve come.
- 5. Back to Burgundy Get swept away in this French film about three siblings who reunite to save the family’s vineyard in Burgundy. Go into the vines, learn a little more about making and appreciating wine, and be transported to this much-revered French region.
- 6. Somm This documentary follows four sommeliers as they prepare for the notoriously arduous exam to become a master sommelier. Watch as they sniff, swirl and cram in increasing states of angst. You could even make it a double screening with the follow-up, Somm: Into the Bottle.
- 7. Bottle Shock This film focuses on the Judgement of Paris – a 1976 competition in which French judges blind-tasted a line-up of French and Californian chardonnays and cabernets. Cue sweeping vineyard shots, the late Alan Rickman and one of the greatest upsets in the wine world.
- 8. Red Obsession For an inside look at the Chinese demand for top red wine, this documentary provides brilliant insights. Produced by Australia’s Andrew Caillard, MW, who also features, the film focuses on Bordeaux and the impacts resulting from this growing Chinese market.
- 9. Barolo Boys, The story of a revolution Learn about the so-called Barolo Boys, who broke away from winemaking traditions in the 1980s and ’90s. It caused a scandal in Italy at the time, but also brought huge rewards for northern Italy’s wines. The film also offers a look into this beautiful part of the world.
- 10. Uncorked This recent Netflix release follows Elijah, who is passionate about wine and determined to become a Master Sommelier, despite his father’s expectations that he takes on the family restaurant business. It’s another look at what goes on behind the scenes to sit the exam.
Wine pairing: your go-to wine – you’ll be too engrossed to think about what you’re drinking.
Wine pairing: a dry rosé, one of Provence's benchmark styles.
Wine pairing: anything but merlot.
Wine pairing: Australian chardonnay, arguably the wine to put us on the world map.
Wine pairing: Burgundy, of course. Or Australian pinot.
Wine pairing: a wine that challenges you.
Wine pairing: Californian cabernet
Wine pairing: Bordeaux, or an Australian cabernet blend.
Wine pairing: Barolo, or Australian nebbiolo.
Wine pairing: a wine you really love.
