CELEBRATING THE CITY - KANEBRIDGE QUARTERLY AUTUMN 2024

The latest issue of Kanebridge Quarterly has just landed and we’re celebrating city living. From the best luxury apartments hitting the market to incredible houses transformed by the clever use of passive solar design, we showcase how city living in Australia is evolving and the challenges ahead to reach ever higher standards of living.

We kick off this issue with our story on the internationally recognised cool neighbourhoods in Sydney and Melbourne. They’re nowhere near the water, so what makes them so special? And how can you spot the next fashionable suburb? If you’re more about life’s little luxuries, check out our story on the rise of the apartment concierge — and where you can get in on the action. NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler also shares his vision for the construction of multi-residential projects, making builders more accountable than ever and bringing confidence back to the market.

In the Money section, as more homeowners feel the pinch amid stubbornly high interest rates, we look at ways to keep money in your pocket without the belt tightening, at least not much. Plus, we explore the world of investing in gems and jewellery, talking to the experts about what pieces truly appreciate in value. If you’re looking at where to get the best returns on your investments, we can point you in the right direction, from bricks and mortar, the cryptocurrencies (yes, they’re back), gold and more.

Lifestyle lovers will enjoy drawing back the curtain on some of the best designed homes in Australia, including a house in Melbourne that doesn’t need heating in winter. Plus, we drop in on Singapore designer Gabriel Tan, who moved his family to Portugal in the middle of COVID. And speaking of people on the move, our travel section looks at the growing market for solo travellers, and the travel companies catering to their interests.

It’s a packed issue, perfect for dipping into and taking away truly useful information. Get ready to invest in your best life.

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Italian fine wines are gaining momentum among Australian collectors and drinkers, with new data from showing a surge in interest driven by value, versatility and a new generation of producers.

Long dominated by France, the premium wine conversation is beginning to shift, with Italy increasingly positioned as a compelling alternative for both drinking and collecting.

According to Langtons, the category is benefiting from a combination of factors, including its breadth of styles, strong food affinity and more accessible price points compared to traditional European benchmarks.

“Italy has always offered fine wine fans an incredible range of wines with finesse, nuance, expression of terroir, ageability, rarity, and heritage,” said Langtons General Manager Tamara Grischy.

“There’s no doubt the Italian wine category is gaining momentum in 2026… While the French have long dominated the fine wine space in Australia, we’re seeing Italy become a strong contender as the go-to for both drinking and collecting.”

The shift is being reinforced by changing consumer preferences, with Langtons reporting increased demand for indigenous Italian varieties and lighter, food-first styles such as Nerello Mascalese from Etna and modern Chianti Classico.

This aligns with the broader rise of Mediterranean-style dining in Australia, where wines are expected to complement a wider range of dishes rather than dominate them.

Langtons buyer Zach Nelson said the category’s versatility is central to its appeal.

“Italian wines often have a distinct, savoury edge making them an ideal pairing for a variety of cuisines,” he said.

The move towards Italian wines also comes as prices for traditional French regions continue to climb, particularly in Burgundy, prompting collectors to look elsewhere for value without compromising on quality.

Italy’s key regions, including Piedmont and Etna, are increasingly seen as offering that balance, with premium wines available at comparatively accessible price points.

Nelson said value is now a defining factor for buyers in 2026.

“Value is the key driver for Australian fine wine consumers… Italian wines are offering exactly that at an impressive array of price points to suit any budget,” he said.

The category is also proving attractive for newer collectors, offering what Langtons describes as “accessible prestige” and a more open entry point compared to the exclusivity often associated with Bordeaux.

Wines such as Brunello di Montalcino and Nebbiolo-based expressions are increasingly being positioned as entry points into cellar-worthy collections, combining ageability with relative affordability.

At the same time, a new generation of Italian producers is reshaping the category, moving away from heavier, oak-driven styles towards wines that emphasise site expression and vibrancy.

“There’s definitely a ‘new guard’ of Italian winemaking… stripping away the makeup… to let the raw, vibrating energy of the site speak,” Nelson said.

Langtons is also expanding its offering in the category, including exclusive access to wines from family-owned producer Boroli, alongside a broader selection spanning Piedmont, Veneto, Sicily and Tuscany.

The company will showcase the category further at its upcoming Italian Collection Masterclass and Tasting in Sydney, featuring more than 50 wines from 23 producers across four key regions.

For collectors and drinkers alike, the message is clear: Italy may have been overlooked, but it is no longer under the radar.

CELEBRATING THE CITY – KANEBRIDGE QUARTERLY AUTUMN 2024

The latest issue explores the diversity and delight of living in our capitals

Italian wines are emerging as a serious contender for Australian collectors, offering depth, rarity and value as French benchmarks continue to climb.