Saturday, February 23, 2019

Robert Stein 2018 Farm Series Riesling


Dry rieslings continue to offer some of the best-value wine drinking in Australia and this new release from talented young Jacob Stein in Mudgee is a very good example. For under $20 this is extremely impressive with lime and grapefruit notes to the fore and a crisp, minerally acid finish allied to the merest hint of fruit sweetness. Made from young vines in a stellar vintage, this would pair impressively with Thai and Vietnamese stir fries, or as a refreshing back porch quaffer after a tough day at work. $18. https://robertstein.com.au

Friday, February 15, 2019

Elderton 2017 Barossa GSM

The Ashmead family can be relied upon to produce impressive wines at fair prices; often edging towards the more elegant style of Barossa reds. This is a case in point. Traditionally used in fortified wines, regional stalwart grenache has been blended with shiraz and mourvedre from the family estates at Greenock. There is a lot of flavour here, some complexity, too, but most of all there is serious drinkability - think blueberries and violets. Matured in French oak puncheons for 15 months, this speaks quietly but powerfully, and would pair admirably with just about any hearty meat dish from burgers to casseroles. $34. www.eldertonwines.com.au.  

Saturday, February 2, 2019

Kooyong Clonale 2018 Chardonnay


Calling all lovers of Chablis. If you are finding your fresh, citrus/mineral favourite increasingly expensive then here is a very good Australian alternative from Kooyong on the Mornington Peninsula. There is a floral/talcum powder nose leading on to an impressive intensity and acidity on the palate. Think pithy manadarin and grapefruit, hinits of ripe dtone fruits, with just a hint of nuttiness. Wonderfully fresh and beguiling. My bet is you'll empty the bottle quick smart. $34. www.kooyongwines.com.au