Fraser Gallop Estate 2018 Parterre Cabernet Sauvignon

 

Established in 1999, it took Fraser Gallop Estate less than two decades to join the very top echelon of Margaret River producers. Located in the "golden strip" of Wilyabrup, north of Margaret River township, the estate has 50 acres under vine. Just edging out the 2017 Parterre on my scorecard, this is a classic Bordeaux blend of (largely) cabernet sauvignon with petit verdot. malbec, merlot and cabernet franc. Even in its youth it has appeal but like an elite athlete it is just warming up and would be very much at home in a cool cellar for a decade or so. Classic, stylish, concentrated. 95.5 points. 

$55. www.frasergallopestate.com.au/

Clonakilla 2019 Shiraz Viognier

 

A special occasion to celebrate? May I point you in the direction of the opulent new-release Clonakilla 2019 Shiraz Viognier, a benchmark Australian red blend of red and white grapes (94% shiraz and 6% viognier c-fermented). Winemaker Tim Kirk says yields were down 20% but he cannot recall many vintages with more power and intensity. This is powerful, dark, plush and cellarworthy. Clonakilla is a small, family business at Murrumbateman, outside Canberra, that is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Buy a bottle and raise a toast to this Rhone-influenced standout. $120. https://clonakilla.com.au/

Longview Vineyard 2020 Macclesfield Gruner Veltliner

 

Gruner Veltliner, the spicy white wine standout from Austria, is making itself very much at home in the Adelaide Hills - and this is one of the best yet. Grown on the immaculately tended Macclesfield vineyards of the Saturno family on the southern edge of the Hills, this is among the best Australian gruners yet. It is poised and intense with both citrus and white stone fruit flavours and some fresh ground pepper notes with pebbly minerality on the finish. Absolutely delightful. $30. www.longviewvineyard.com.au.