In difficult circumstances, it can be reassuring to turn to wines that "over-deliver" – wines that have a feel of pedigree and quality at a lower price tag. The classic styles of Australia's premium regions have climbed in price over recent years, but there are still wines from those places that provide top-notch regional personality without completely busting the budget. Here are two in the $20-$30 zone that equal the quality of regional peers selling for much more, and one delicious young fortified wine that gives tons of bang for your buck.

Mr. Riggs Outpost Coonawarra Cabernet 2018, $23-$25

Score 93

Archetypal Coonawarra cabernet sauvignon. Blackcurrant, briar, mocha and minty notes lead from nose through smooth middleweight palate, combining ripe varietal fruit and just enough austerity for savoury appeal. A bargain. Screw cap; 14.5 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over 10 years plus.

Stockists include Nicks Wine Merchants, Doncaster East (Vic), nicks.com.au; Shorty's Liquor, Sydney (NSW), shortysliquor.com.au

Yering Station Village Pinot Noir 2018, $24-$26

Score 89

Bright and youthful, this young Yarra Valley pinot has impressive regional and varietal purity. Plum, blossom and herby aromas introduce a succulent mouthful of harmonious balance and good persistence. Screw cap; 13 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? Drink over three years..

Stockists include Just released. Check with your local wine shop or contact yering.com

Chambers Rutherglen Muscat NV $21-$23, 375ml

Score 90

Rutherglen muscat without old blend complexity, but it over-delivers in grapey, youthful verve. Dried muscatel, fig syrup and toffee aromas are very seductive, and the palate is sweet and luscious, yet clean and zesty. Simply delicious. Screw cap; 18.5 per cent alcohol.

Ageing? No.

Stockists include Dan Murphy's stores, danmurphys.com.au or contact Chambers, chambersrosewood.com.au