Located in one of South Australia's most iconic wine-growing regions, leaders in sustainable agriculture, The Hidden Sea is a conscious brand. Co-founders Richie Vandenberg and Justin Moran make vegan wine with a clear goal, to improve the health of our marine ecosystem. Wine editor Joelle Thomson explains.
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If there was ever a wine brand that had a memorable connection, it was The Hidden Sea. As the name suggests, this wine is born from the ocean's influence. Its ever-changing tides, the salty sea air, and health and well-being. It’s common knowledge our oceans need some love. From overfishing to plastic pollution, around 199 million tons are floating in our oceans, consumed by marine life that will eventually end up in our food chain. If our current rate of this pollution continues, it is expected to outweigh all the fish in the sea by 2050. So for every bottle of The Hidden Sea wine that sells, the brand will support removing and recycling ten plastic bottles from the ocean, with ReSea Project, accredited with the DNV’s Chain of Custody standard for plastics retrieved from the hydrosphere. At the same time, The Hidden Sea team collaborate on beach and waterway cleanups around the world. So to celebrate Plastic Free July, what better time to introduce you to an environmentally conscious brand that makes beautiful wine?
The Hidden Sea Pinot Gris, $20
Light-bodied and lower-than-usual alcohol make this a refreshing Pinot Grigio with fruity white pear and white peach flavours leading into a clean, bright wine, ideal for a lovely glass at lunch.
Graze with: Soft mild cheese such as mild cheeses, like brie or mozzarella, with sourdough or seed crackers.
Serve with: Shrimp salad or a pea and mint risotto.
The Hidden Sea Sauvignon Blanc, $20
Fresh aromas of lemon grass and hints of summer days fill the senses with each sip of this Australian Sauvignon Blanc, which combines layers of fresh green fruit and citrus notes in a light-bodied wine 2022 variety.
Graze with: Goat cheese is a match made in heaven with this wine, then add a drizzle of honey on crackers or sourdough bread.
Serve with: Creamy seafood chowder.
The Hidden Sea Rosé, $20
A hint of pink and a touch of fruitiness both add appeal to this dry rosé with its summer berry flavours. This 2022 rosé is a keeper.
Graze with: Goat cheese, nuts and seasonal fruit.
Serve with: Grilled white fish and a leafy salad.
The Hidden Sea Shiraz, $20
Shiraz is the most famous of Australian red wines for a good reason; its layers of ripe plums, dark berries and hints of chocolate all add up to a drink-me-now red that lures wine lovers in with its aromatic charms and entire body. This is a 2021 variety is a winner.
Graze with: Sharp aged cheddar or havarti with salty crackers.
Serve with: Homemade burgers or BBQ Sirloin steak with a crisp, seasonal salad.
At home with food stylist Fiona Hugues.