If you’re one to stand aimlessly in the aisle of your local liquor store, staring at shelves upon shelves of wine feeling perplexed as ever, may we recommend transferring the responsibility to a reliable advisor? And by reliable advisor, we of course mean your star sign.

After all, we look to the stars to talk us through a number of our life choices, including when exactly we should be seeking out a love match, how we should adjust our routines in tricky times, and the career we should pursue—so why not channel all that cosmic energy into picking our perfect tipple?

To aid us in pairing you with your ideal drop, we turned to Astro Vino—your wine/star sign match maker—to take you through the varieties you should be reaching for, and why they’re your perfect wine match.

Tapping into her ability to not only utilise one’s sun sign attributes, but also the influence of their moon, ascendant (rising sign) and other planets, to piece together a person’s layered character, O’Donnell birthed a business that incorporated her two loves—astrology and wine—one that’s sole purpose to match a wine’s attributes (including the varietal, the terroir, and even the weather the grape grew in) to the characteristics of a person’s astrological sign.

“People are like vintages, born of a time and under a celestial arrangement individual to them,” shares O’Donnell. “A cosmic terroir, if you will. These are the influences of their soul’s making. The recipe that defines their natures, behaviours and desires.”

Scroll on to uncover your fated wine match according to your star sign.
Aries
Sign characteristics
“Aries are warm-hearted, generous, bright, lively, pioneering, enthusiastic and energising. These fire signs are the first-borns of the zodiac,” says O’Donnell. “They are ambitious, even rebellious and brazen at times. With an air of confidence and competition, they chase new experiences fearlessly. They live and love passionately, as though they have never been burned.”

The ideal wine varieties for the sign
“When I think of Aries, I think of a wine that jumps out of the glass. The action is up front, the flavour is forthright—as a drop it’s almost full-on, not for the faint hearted. Flavour characteristics will be bright and lively; red fruits, [including] cherries, strawberries, raspberries and warmth—a little layered spice or fresh cedar-y heat. Nothing too tannic—Aries is not the cautious, pensive type to sit on a glass and contemplate life, so they need a drink-now kind of wine. Try Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Montepulciano and other light-medium red blends. Whites are typically less preferred, but styles with zinging acidity and clean, citrus notes will refresh these gung-ho go-getters. Try a dry Riesling or Chenin Blanc.”

Wine match
2018 Frederick Stevenson Montepulciano

2020 Dormilona Clayface Chenin Vin

Taurus
Sign characteristics
“Taureans are tolerant, mindful, enduring, determined, practical and warm,” O’Donnell points out. “These earth signs are grounded and connected to nature. The bulls are sensual creatures who live in the physical realm. Inspired by beauty and material possessions, they have developed a taste for the finer things. Taureans like to take their time and savour each moment. They favour leisure and luxury.”

The ideal wine varieties for the sign
“When I think of Taurus, I think of wines that age well; Semillon, Chardonnay, Nebbiolo, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, etc. Taureans like the sense of security, so having something stashed away that’s appreciating in value and taste would be quite the appeal. Flavour characteristics—well, it’s more about sensation for Taurus—[are] luxurious, warming whites with weight and substance such as Chardonnay or Marsanne with decadent notes of creme brûlée, vanilla and french oak. Something to be satiated by. This could even be a rich, chocolatey Pinot Noir with enduring length. And of course, the Taurean nature would be suitably paired with the sensual pleasures of Champagne.”

Wine match
2018 Nocturne Single Vineyard Chardonnay

2019 Fleet ‘Nostalgia’ Pinot Noir

Gemini
Sign characteristics
“Geminis are sociable, intelligent, expressive, changeable, chatty and charming,” notes O’Donnell. “These air signs are curious creatures that live for excitement and discovery. Geminis are happiest with variety in their lives. Thanks to their dual nature (the twins) they have two sides, and often multiple pursuits, to keep them occupied. As Mercurial minds, they are witty and clever, enjoying good banter immensely.”

The ideal wine varieties for the sign
“When I think of Gemini, I think preferentially promiscuous, in that they’re open to trying anything. Experimental styles, with ample intrigue—skinsy (skin-contact), textural, orange wines—will always be a good conversation starter. Dry, aromatic whites with refreshing acidity, such as Chenin Blanc, dry Riesling and Savagnin will give Gemini the stimulation they crave. Red/white blends to reflect their dualistic personality. Even a glass of charming rosé wouldn’t go astray. On the red side, when I think of the light-hearted conversationalists, I think of Gamay, Grenache, Nebbiolo and Pinot Noir—lighter styles, with a lot to say. These are refreshing reds with ample complexity to hold the interests of the sign most easily bored.”

Wine match
2019 BK Wines Skin & Bones Savagnin

2018 Architects of Wine Adelaide Hills Nebbiolo ‘Normale’
Cancer
Sign characteristics
“Cancerians are romantic, loyal, dedicated, sentimental, caring and shy,” O’Donnell points out. “These water signs are governed by sensation—they feel deeply, love strongly and take everything to heart. The sensitive crabs are ruled by the moon and can thank its influence for their changeable moods. Protective and non-confrontational, Cancerians may exert a tough exterior but they are soft and nostalgic to their core.”

The ideal wine varieties for the sign
“When I think of Cancer, I think of big, heady reds that can wrap these melancholy creatures in rich, gooey warmth (read ‘alco-blankets’) and soothe them—or simply just support them in their need to feel. Decadent, romantic reds that seek to fill a void. Big, bold Barossa Shiraz, GSMs, Mourvèdre/Mataro, and Cabernet blends—these are wines so fulfilling, that they are almost a meal. Equally for white varieties—luxurious, more dramatic, [like] winter whites such as Chardonnay, Marsanne and Roussanne. Full-bodied styles to sit on, to reflect and contemplate, with persistent flavour and dedicated length”

Wine match
2019 Paralian Blewitt Springs Shiraz

2018 Limus Chardonnay
Leo
Sign characteristics
“Leos are convivial, generous, energetic, dramatic, domineering and proud,” says O’Donnell. “These passionate fire signs are equally gifted in both the bedroom and the boardroom. Comfortable as the centre of attention, these spirited entertainers are always the life of the party. Thanks to their big, generous hearts, these cats are incredibly loving and loyal. Leos are strong, courageous and ambitious.”

The ideal wine varieties for the sign
“When I think of luminous Leo, I think of celebration and energy. Fun and fizzy proseccos, pét nats and rosés—everything light and playful to get the party started! Depending on the occasion, Leo has many options—remember, these energetic individuals live life to the full. For date night, we think of reds full of passion and drama. Start with the juicy fruit characters, sleek tannins and slender body of Pinot Noir, then move to a silky Syrah (Shiraz) to kick things up a notch. For dinner with the girls, the brightness of Sangiovese suits Leo’s light-hearted charisma and natural bounce. Finally, when the occasion calls for it, a nice tannic Malbec—full of courage and authority—to channel that inner strength.”

Wine match
2019 Shobbrook Poolside Rosé

2019 Farr Rising Gamay

Virgo
Sign characteristics
“Virgos are charming, intelligent, precise, practical and prudent,” O’Donnell notes. “These earth signs are the perfectionists of the zodiac, with a keenly critical acumen. Virgos are kind, helpful creatures. They respect authority and abide by the rules. These are signs that are happy in service, assisting others where they can. Innately meticulous, Virgos are all about accuracy, with strong attention to detail.”

The ideal wine varieties for the sign
“When I think of Virgo, I think of clean, mineral whites—an essence of purity to align with the Virgoan nature. Styles such as Riesling or Grüner Veltliner have a lean, herbal, cleansing quality that pairs well with the astringency of the Virgo character. Reds made in homage to tradition—in Europe, these would be DOC (Italy) and AOC (France) wines, produced through exacting methods to guarantee consistency of the region. Reputation is of value to the rule-abiding Virgo. Finally, low-yielding vines or vintages tend to produce rather special wines, concentrated in flavour with impeccable detail. This essence of exclusivity and purity is synonymous with Virgo. Try the producers in the Barossa and Hunter Valley for the most traditional methods, and small pockets in the Adelaide Hills and aged-vine expressions (of Grenache, Pinot Noir and Merlot) for low-yielding gems, where you see them.”

Wine match
2019 Hahndorf Hill Gru Gruner Veltliner

2019 Gentle Folk Scary Gully Pinot Noir
Libra
Sign characteristics
“Librans are harmonious, bright, bubbly, fun-loving, popular, diplomatic and truly humble,” explains O’Donnell. “These air signs are fair and gentle creatures. Influenced by Venus, the ruler of grace, beauty and charm, they like their aesthetics and relationships in harmony. Libra is symbolised by the scales, for their diplomacy—they consider both sides seeking balance.”

The ideal wine varieties for the sign
“When I think of Libra, I think of light, airy pét nats (pétillant naturel) in a myriad of glorious shades, gentle, easy-drinking rosés and stunning, floral, aromatic whites. Gewürztraminer (try those on the subtle side) with notes of lychee of rose, also Fiano, Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio. Go for modern styles of Chardonnay, which favour zesty citrus notes and fresh acidity, over those matured in oak. Reds should be bright and balanced—free of eccentricities, the more elegant styles such as Nebbiolo, Grenache and Pinot Noir. Lighter styles served chilled, are also a friendly nod to the balancing act of the Libran nature.”

Wine match
2019 Little Ra Ra Pétillant #1

2018 Sigurd White Blend

Scorpio
Sign characteristics
“Scorpios are strong, passionate, intense, virile, serious, dominating and magnetic,” O’Donnell shares. “These water signs run deep. Taciturn (read deadpan) and tight-lipped at face value, they hide a well of emotional depth and thought behind this facade. Scorpios are almost immediately recognisable by their intensity. The air around them feels charged. Their drive and power is a part of their persona. Scorpio’s defining feature is their eyes—they have fiercely alluring, hypnotic eyes that are only too comfortable holding you prisoner in their gaze.”

The ideal wine varieties for the sign
“When I think of Scorpio, I think of full-bodied, powerful reds that are layered, deep, memorable and complex. Scorpio’s reserved tendencies channel through these styles—dense, heavier reds needing time and air to open up, so a decanter is wise investment. Try Shiraz, Nero d’Avola, Malbec, Touriga Nacional and Tannat. Scorpio has a dark side, so [they lean towards] fruit characters across the mulberry, black plum, black cherry and blueberry spectrum—the darker, the better for Scorpio. For whites, try Arneis, its distinctive and pleasantly polarising, which resonates with the Scorpio character.”

Wine match
2016 Gestalt Tessera Clare Malbec

2019 Adelina Eternal Return Arneis
Sagittarius
Sign characteristics
“Sagittarians are impulsive, restless, knowledgeable, candid, honest, optimistic and warm-hearted,” says O’Donnell. “These fire signs are the adventurers of the zodiac. They are insatiably curious and gifted with incredible mental prowess. The archers are expressive, buoyant, generous individuals who aim to make the best out of any situation.”

The ideal wine varieties for the sign
“When I think of Sagittarius, I think of warm, bouncy reds that align with their jovial nature. Succulent and bright, red berry characters, more juicy/less tannic, easy-drinking, medium-bodied, fun-loving reds! Red blends that bring together all the good stuff in one vibrant glass. Try Carignan, Negro Amaro, Montepulciano and Tempranillo. Bright, thirst-quenching Italian whites, such as Vermentino and Verdicchio will serve as inspiration for those European Summers. Finally, the modern, crisp expressions of Fiano and Sauvignon Blanc are the ideal refreshers for the restless, travel-loving Sagittarians.”

Wine match
2018 Alpha Box & Dice Mistress Tempranillo/Carignan

2019 Somos Blanquito Arneis/Garganega/Verdelho

Capricorn
Sign characteristics
“Capricorns are structured, serious, neat, honest, loyal, responsible and organised,” O’Donnell explains. “These earth signs are pragmatic and practical in nature. Thanks to their ruler Saturn (the stern, taskmaster planet) Capricorns are hard-working, driven and full of purpose, often excelling in their careers as a result. These goats can be somewhat righteous, [and] their loyal nature and long-term mind sees them devoted in work and love.”

The ideal wine varieties for the sign
“When I think of Capricorn, I think of the stern and serious reds. Styles with robust tannin structure, that are more on the savoury route, [such as] Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Saperavi and some Syrah (Shiraz). These are discerning styles for discerning people, earthy and ferrous. For the unwavering Capricorns, the structured theme continues into whites—think full-bodied, buttery Chardonnays, Chardonnay/Semillon blends and oaked Sauvignon Blancs. These are whites of substance, with licks of tannin and enduring length. Serious staying power.”

Wine match
2018 Koerner Vivian Cabernet Sauvignon/Sangiovese

2018 Bobar Chardonnay

Aquarius
Sign characteristics
“Aquarians are aloof, original, independent, progressive, uncompromising, humanitarian, visionaries,” notes O’Donnell. “These lofty air signs will always entertain a fresh perspective. They are highly opinionated and prefer to operate outside of convention. Aquarians are intellectual thinkers and good listeners. These problem solvers want to lead change and create a fair and equal world.”

The ideal wine varieties for the sign
“When I think of Aquarius, I think of fun, exciting, new age wines that rock convention and delight the taste buds. Intriguing blends, co-fermentation, wild fermentation, extended time on skins—you name it. Try producers such as Brave New Wine, Smallfry and Tom Shobbrook for their bold use of natural winemaking techniques and wonderfully creative expressions. For white varieties that have been transformed into oranges and ambers, look for Pinot Gris, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. For reds, try those on the cool and fresh side—anything with carbonic maceration will be nicely lifted. Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir.”

Wine match
2019 Brave New Wine Dreamland Riesling Botanical

2019 Lucy Margaux Cabernet Franc

Pisces
Sign characteristics
“Pisces are intuitive, dreamy, idealistic, sensitive, caring and highly imaginative,” says O’Donnell. “These water signs are empathic creatures that can be easily absorbed by the suffering of those around them. Pisces is the final sign in the astrological cycle. This placement is part way between the tangible and spiritual worlds and with access to both realms Pisces gain mysticism, creativity and intuition.”

The ideal wine varieties for the sign
“When I think of Pisces, I think of cloudy styles that blur the lines of reality. Textural, white varieties such as Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier and Chardonnay have a dreamy fluidity which suits the neither-here-nor-there nature of Pisces. Reds can range from lighter, more transparent styles (Grenache, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc) for Pisces innately gentle character. Progressing to the richer, more robust styles (Shiraz, Mourvèdre/Mataro, GSM blends) which will comfort these delicate creatures when in distress, providing solace for the sign that feels so deeply.”

Wine match
2019 JC’s Own Freestyler Marsanne/Viognier

2018 M&J Becker Syrah