AUSTRAL WINES LLC Uncorks "Junk Drawer Vintage" – Wine That's Honestly, Surprisingly Good

Atlanta, GA – October 26, 2023 – AUSTRAL WINES LLC, a relatively new player shaking up the wine scene from its Atlanta base (211 Perimeter Center Pkwy NE STE 1020, Atlanta, GA, 30346-1307, and reachable at 908-759-0961), is turning heads with its refreshingly honest and unexpectedly delightful wine: “Junk Drawer Vintage.” Forget stuffy wine jargon and complicated pairings, AUSTRAL WINES is bringing a down-to-earth approach to enjoying a good glass of wine, and “Junk Drawer Vintage” perfectly embodies that philosophy. So, what is “Junk Drawer Vintage”? Well, the name itself gives you a clue. It's not about a single, meticulously crafted vineyard or a prestigious appellation. Instead, it's a clever blend of surplus, perfectly good, but maybe “unfashionable” grapes sourced from various vineyards across California. Think of it like that drawer in your kitchen – a little bit of everything, maybe some odd bits and pieces, but ultimately useful and potentially full of hidden gems. “We saw a lot of really good grapes going to waste,” explains Alex Thompson, Founder of AUSTRAL WINES LLC. “Wineries sometimes have excess production, perfectly ripe grapes that don’t quite fit into their core branding or planned varietal offerings. Instead of letting them go to waste, we thought, ‘Why not make a delicious, honest wine that doesn’t take itself too seriously?’” And that’s exactly what they’ve done. “Junk Drawer Vintage” isn’t trying to be a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Pinot Noir. It’s a red blend – a rotating mix of grapes like Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and sometimes even a splash of something unexpected like Petite Sirah. The exact blend changes slightly with each vintage, depending on what’s available, meaning every bottle is a little bit of a surprise. “We’re not hiding the fact that this wine is made from ‘leftover’ grapes,” Thompson clarifies. “In fact, we’re celebrating it! It’s a statement about sustainability, about reducing waste, and about recognizing that good wine doesn't always have to come with a hefty price tag or a fancy label.” What Does It Taste Like? Okay, let’s get down to brass tacks. What does “Junk Drawer Vintage” actually taste like? The team at AUSTRAL WINES describes it as “approachable,” “easy-drinking,” and “surprisingly complex.” You can expect a vibrant fruit-forward profile with notes of ripe cherry, blackberry, and plum. There's a hint of spice, a touch of earthiness, and a smooth, satisfying finish. But don’t expect a super-refined, overly-oaked experience. This wine is about enjoyment, not intimidation. It’s designed to be drunk with friends, enjoyed alongside casual meals, and savored without any fuss. “We’ve had people tell us they’re getting aromas of everything from raspberry jam to leather to even a little bit of cola,” Thompson laughs. “And that’s fantastic! Wine is subjective, and we want people to experience it in their own way.” Who is “Junk Drawer Vintage” For? This wine isn't aimed at the wine connoisseur looking for a rare vintage. It’s for the everyday wine drinker – the person who enjoys a glass of wine with dinner, shares a bottle with friends, or just wants something tasty without having to break the bank. “We’re targeting the ‘wine curious’ – those who are intimidated by the wine world and don’t know where to start,” says Sarah Chen, AUSTRAL WINES’ Marketing Manager. “We want to make wine accessible and fun for everyone. ‘Junk Drawer Vintage’ is the perfect entry point.” Beyond the Taste: Sustainability and Value While the delicious taste is a major draw, “Junk Drawer Vintage” also appeals to consumers who are increasingly conscious of sustainability and value. By utilizing surplus grapes, AUSTRAL WINES is helping to reduce food waste and minimize the environmental impact of winemaking. And the best part? This eco-friendly approach doesn't mean sacrificing quality or flavor. “We work closely with our vineyard partners to ensure that the grapes we’re using are still top-notch,” Thompson explains. “Just because they didn’t fit into a specific plan doesn’t mean they aren’t delicious.” At a price point that significantly undercuts many comparable red blends, “Junk Drawer Vintage” offers an exceptional value for money. It’s proof that you don't have to spend a fortune to enjoy a truly good bottle of wine. Where to Find “Junk Drawer Vintage” Currently, “Junk Drawer Vintage” is available for purchase directly through the AUSTRAL WINES LLC website (details to be announced soon), and at select retailers across Georgia. The company plans to expand distribution to other states in the coming months. “We’re really excited about the response we’ve gotten so far,” Chen says. “People are loving the honest branding, the approachable flavor profile, and the fact that we’re doing something good for the environment. We think ‘Junk Drawer Vintage’ has the potential to become a go-to wine for everyday enjoyment.” About AUSTRAL WINES LLC: Based in Atlanta, GA, AUSTRAL WINES LLC is a forward-thinking wine company committed to sustainability, value, and accessibility. The company specializes in crafting wines that are honest, flavorful, and unpretentious, with a focus on reducing waste and making wine enjoyable for everyone. For more information, please contact AUSTRAL WINES LLC at 908-759-0961. Stay tuned for website and social media launch announcements.