We’re almost at the end of the year and it’s been another challenging one. Little wonder we’re drinking more. In 2020 a global drug survey found that Australians reported getting drunk 27 times over the year, the most out of any country in the survey and well above the global average of 15. In 2021 we drank even more, according to Roy Morgan research, with wine being the big driver. It seems that without the usual avenues for adventure we have been escaping via the bottle and ‘the box’. Which is a perfect entree into the last post of the year in which I combine booze with TV shows. Forgive me if I’ve done this before, but I promise the wines and shows will be different. I’ve ordered them as I watched them and added the IMBD rating along with the relevant streaming service.

It’s a Sin. 8.7 Stan

Angels in America told the American story of AIDS, this is the British version and while it’s much more up the tale is depressingly familiar. My talented and inspirational cousin was a victim to the virus and if I could ask him for a recommendation I’m sure he would have suggested a good champagne – he introduced us to Billecart-Salmon Rosé so let’s stick with that. Although you’d be wise to add a shot of brandy to the glass for the last few episodes. If you’re on a budget then the latest Piper Heidsieck NV is great value for under $50.

Mare of Eastown. 8.5 Binge

I absolutely loved this show. Kate Winslet was brilliant as Mare, as was her character’s mother Helen, played by Jean Smart. While set in the US it had the grit of a UK show with characters to match, ie they were thoroughly normal people with normal people problems. That’s if kidnapping and murder were normal people problems. Its characters drank a lot of beer but I found myself wanting something stronger. Stronger, but straight forward – the story requires your full concentration – something like Lightfoot Pinot Noir, $26 from DM, which I mentioned in February. Firm but eminently drinkable and with enough alcohol to counter the shocks in the series.

Ted Lasso. 8.8 Apple TV

Technically, Season 1 came out in 2020, but I didn’t see it till this year. The show is a must for all those in positions of leadership, particularly the first season. It teaches us (or reminds us) of the importance of humility and that different people need different forms of motivation. It also reminded me how important a pint of beer at your local can be. I found myself longing to sit down and sip a slightly tepid British pint while solving the problems of the world with a close friend. So for this one I’d recommend Tetley’s Smooth Ale, $5 a can from Dan Murphy’s. You’ll need two for each episode.

The Morning Show Season 2. 8.3 Apple TV

Ok, so it’s not as good as the first series, but it’s still compelling. I had to pace myself, I can only take so much self-obsession and it feels like every character in this show is well practiced in the art of that. Without giving too much away I’d stick to Italian wines, maybe start with a good Soave or Vernaccia di San Gimignano while the story is relatively light and then build to something big, rich and life-changing like Amaranta di Ulisse, Montepulicano d’Abruzzo, one of the best wines I’ve had all year and a bargain at $34 from Cloud Cellars.

Furia. 7.0 SBS

Right-wing Norwegian terrorists team up with the masters of the game and Europe is in danger. Can a duo of Norway’s best and worst police officers thwart them? It’s slow to get going (starts off looking like a tourism ad for Norway) but develops into a well-paced and far too believable thriller. By the last two episodes I was desperate for a large whisky, but perhaps the best way to start is with a few cans of Heaps Normal and work your way up to that. Then again, maybe Aquavit is more appropriate?

Don’t Look Up. 7.3 Netflix

A comet is on a collision course for Earth and we’re all going to die. Or are we? It’s time to open the best wine you have in the fridge/cupboard/cellar, the one you’ve been keeping for a special occasion as there’s no point keeping it any longer. And when you’ve finished that, start on the second best. Then make your way through the rest because, for the first time in your life, you won’t have to worry about a hangover the next morning. Or will you? Mount Mary Cabernets, Bass Phillip Pinot Noir, Giaconda Chardonnay.

Here’s to a better 2022.