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There are few grape varieties that suit the Australian lifestyle better than grüner-veltliner and this is a particularly appealling example from Fred Loimer in Kamtal, Austria. Grüner veltliner is the signature grape of Austria and produces dry white wines with savoury aromas, spicy flavours, and bright acidity. Loimer's vineyards are now all organic and this is light, low in alcohol at 11.5%, unoaked and extremely refreshing. It also very food-friendly, pairing with anything from spicy Asian cuisine to poultry and seafood dishes. Imported by Red & White.$28. www.loimer.at.
How good is this? A seriously enjoyable red from an excellent year in West Australia that offers immediate pleasure with its bright, juicy demeanour. The winemaking team of Gavin Berry and Gill Graham describe it as "as good a vintage we have ever experienced". Formerly known as shiraz, the new vintage has been re-badged as syrah in homage the the grape's origins in France's Rhone Valley. This is made from 20+-year-old vines that have really hit their peak and offers spice and plush fruit flavours along with that instant approachability. A terrific all-purpose red that is great value for $22.50.
www.mounttriowines.com.au.
It is less than 12 months ago that I was raving about the 2017 Henk Chardonnay - a wine that sold out very quickly. The 2018 vintage is, if anything, even better with winemaker David Bicknell again working his magic on fruit from a grower in Woori Yallock in the cool upper Yarra Valley - a guy called Henk, Natural ferment, whole-bunch pressing to large-format French oak and 10 months on lees have resulted in a chardonnay from an excellent vintage that offers quite exquisite pleasure with its sexy citrus and minerality. Once again it is a wine of immediate appeal but with the length and structure to cellar impressively. 96.5/100. $42. www.oakridgewines.com.au
Bleasdale has been making wine in Langhorne Creek for 169 years now - but still tends to fly a little under the radar of casual drinkers. For those in the know it is a small winery with a big reputation. Winemaker Paul Hotker has significantly standards in recent vintages and this is one of a range of reds offering excellent value for money. You won't find many better balanced reds around $20 than this - a medium-bodied, elegant offering with classic berry and chocolate aromas and flavours. Very smooth and a great partner for a roast lamb en croute, or a fillet steak with mushroom sauce. $20. www.bleasdale.com.au.
