Saturday, February 28, 2009

Pewsey Vale 2008 Eden Valley Riesling


Australians can still drink formidably well on a budget, as evidenced by this superly-crafted riesling from the Yalumba stable. Steely minerality, intense citrus flavours and lively acid all shine through. I'd be happy to drink this every day. $18.

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Printhie 2008 Sauvignon Blanc


This Orange-region winery is a byword for quality at fair prices. This is among our better sauvignons blanc with tropical fruit aromas and a nice balance between fruit salad and herbaceous characters on the palate. Disturbingly drinkable. $17.

Monday, February 16, 2009

Helm 2008 Classic Dry Riesling


Ken Helm has been making superb rieslings for three decades at Murrumbateman outside Canberra - and his offerings rival the Clare and Eden valleys for quality. This is bone dry, relatively low in alcohol, full of flavour and with lovely crisp acid. $28.

Saturday, February 7, 2009

Henschke 2006 Keyneton Estate Euphonium


What a pleasure to drink a Barossa red with such marvellous balance and poise. A blend of shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and merlot, this really sings with dark berry characters, chalky tannins and soft oak all in harmony. $49.

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Domaine Chandon 2008 Pinot Gris


The latest addition to the range of Domaine Chandon still wines, this is a fabulous summer wine; very easy to drink with fresh, zippy flavours but also some nicely layered complexity with stone fruit, fig and spice characters prominent. $27.