Saturday, October 23, 2010

Stefano Lubiana 2008 Estate Pinot Noir


Attention to detail is a hallmark of Tasmanian vigneron Stefano Lubiana’s wines and this is stunning, almost Burgundian, with a high-wire act balance between silky mouthfeel, earthiness, fine tannins and sweet fruit. Lubiana's wines from his vineyard at Granton in the Derwent Valley, north of Hobart, just get better and better. This would be superb with duck dishes or roast turkey. Lubiana recommends cellaring for 5-8 years but for me it's too bloody delicious right now. $48.

Monday, October 18, 2010

Lock & Key 2009 Hilltops Shiraz


Jason Brown from Moppity Vineyards seemed a little concerned when I revealed I was writing about this wine; pointing out that other wines under the Moppity label are vastly superior. That may well be true but you can't beat this one for value - a trophy- and gold medal-winning shiraz for under $15 is a bargain in anyone's language. The Hilltops region outside Young is producing some stunning cooler-climate fruit, particularly as vineyard age increases. This is a deeply coloured wine, rich, but in balance, with dark berry and pepper/spice characters and surprising depth for a wine that's so affordable. Load up on the lamb chops! www.moppity.com.au $14.99.

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Golding 2010 La Francesa Savagnin


Savagnin is the new, and rather confusing, name for what we used to call albarino in Australia. Then it was discovered that what we thought was albarino was actually a rare French grape called savagnin (not to be confused with sauvignon blanc). Hence the name of this wine: "La Francesa". Whatever the issues, the end result from this very good Adelaide Hills producer is delicious. It's intensely aromatic with tropical fruits and hints of spice and honey on the palate. Appealingly textural, it's probably closest in style to pinot gris. There's a nice, crisp dry finish, too. This would be a great accompaniment to tapas or a mezze plate. www.goldingwines.com.au. $25.

Saturday, October 2, 2010

Jacques Lurton 2008 Touraine


Jacques Lurton - a member of one of France's most famous winemaking families - is one of the original flying winemakers and has worked just about anywhere on the globe where you find grapes. He's making a success of his Islander Estate label on Kangaroo Island while also importing some of his affordable French wines. This sauvignon blanc has some lovely fresh fruit, Gallic reserve and beguiling layers of flavour. It is dry and vibrant, long and lean with plenty of summer appeal. Drink now. Order from www.iev.com.au. Terrific value at $22.