Tim Kirk describes vintage 2014 as a “wild ride” between October frost, November hail, February heat wave and April rain. To pull such an immediately alluring riesling out of this harrowing season is a testimony to his talent. It’s captivating even now, two-and-a-half months prior to its October release. Beautiful aromatics of kaffir lime and […]
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When shiraz reaches impeccable flavour and tannin ripeness at a refreshing 12.0% alcohol, the result can be captivating. The cool 2012 season has amplified the aromatics of Trinity Hill’s favourite variety on the Gimblett Gravels, and low impact winemaking has preserved its delicacy and fragrance. A hit of pronounced white pepper and crunchy black plum […]
readDon’t be put off by the name or the label, this 1600 bottle single vineyard McLaren Vale shiraz is beautifully refined and controlled. Linda Domas is a master of restraint, and this wine exemplifies her talent, preserving the definition of the biodynamic Creeper Vineyard of less than two-thirds of a hectare, planted in 2002 in […]
readJansz has crafted one of the great Australian sparkling wines, presenting an exacting and captivating balance between fruit presence, lees maturity and zesty freshness. An elegant and delightfully complex nose of fresh pear, lemon zest, brioche, honey and a hint of fig introduces a beautifully poised palate that unites the rich complexity of barrel fermentation […]
readJust inland from the coast, Calgardup Brook Vineyard is the source of the most elegant and focused of McHenry Hohnen’s 2012 chardonnays. It’s a consummately honed and restrained Margaret River style that present balanced layers of rich white peach and crunchy grapefruit, subtle complexity of wild barrel fermentation and neatly integrated notes of roast cashew […]
readA graceful triumph for a warm season, and an outstanding Abercrombie that makes its mark not because it is a blockbuster, but quite the contrary, a classic, medium-bodied Western Australian cabernet of intricate refinement. A blend of Mount Barker and Margaret River, there’s loads of complexity wrapped into its folds, with tobacco, cedar, coffee bean, […]
readSome young wines take hours to declare their full greatness, churning and evolving for some time before finding themselves. Others possess such an effortless confidence and elegant balance that their full calibre is apparent in seconds. Even months before its October release, 2013 declares itself as one of the great Clonakillas, thanks to a season […]
readThere is plenty of black fruit intensity and toasty oak wrapped into the folds of this estate-grown shiraz, yet it upholds its cool climate credentials in vibrant acidity and finely textured tannin structure. A real bargain at $13 at Wine Cow and Dan Murphy’s (2010).
readFrom two vineyards in deep loam on sunny, east facing slopes, this affordable blend contrasts the fine, tight lime and lemon definition of Watervale with the generous baked apple and spice character of 2013. A riesling of approachable immediacy and crowd-pleasing softness, finishing with gentle notes of honey. $20 direct.
readA bargain Frankland River cabernet blend that captures the vibrant tang of this cool region, uniting it seamlessly with crunchy blackcurrants and sweet mulberries. Tannins are fine and firm, providing focus to an engaging and fruit-driven style. $11 at Wine Cow.
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