The scorching heatwave of January and early February played out differently for Hill of Grace than it did for much of South Australia, as this vineyard had not yet gone through veraison. The character of the vintage thus reflects more of the cool conditions of the remainder of the season, and Stephen Henschke compares the […]
Delusional back label aspirations of sourcing “from a selection of the region’s best vineyards” aside, this is a great value introduction to Coonawarra. Accurate varietal and regional markers of crunchy, tangy black- and redcurrant fruit of concentration and persistence are supported by notes of leaf, subtle dark chocolate oak and finely integrated tannins. $14 at […]
From several vineyards on the ancient Cambrian red soils of northern Heathcote, this is a great value introduction to authentic Heathcote shiraz. Lovely density of black plums and vibrant violets are framed by classic Heathcote texture of fine, mineral mouth feel and finely textured tannins of subtle grip and integrated finesse.
A medium-bodied shiraz of dark berry fruits and suggestions of mixed spice and liquorice, lifted subtly by a small addition of viognier. It’s finely structured, textural and value for money. $15 at Prince Wine Store, The Vine Press and Vintage Blue Wines.
Sidewood sells most of the fruit from this large block high in the Adelaide Hills, and keeps its best grapes for this bargain sauvignon. This cool location presents a pretty, perfumed style, nuanced with blackcurrant bud, fennel, lime, lemon and crunchy granny smith apples. Fine chalk mineral texture defines a long, focused finish. Impressive sauvignon […]
A great value riesling of impressive persistence and poise, sourced from estate vines up to 40 years of age. Two years after harvest, it retains lime and lemon zest vibrancy, while building the toasty, buttery complexity of bottle age. A wine of fine, mineral structure and excellent persistence. Best price direct.
Built on Barossa Valley grenache, touched up with a dash of shiraz, cabernet and dolcetto, this is an elegant, textural and fruity rosé of watermelon, guava, poached strawberry and raspberry fruit. A subtle lick of sweetness neatly rounds out a refreshing finish. Even, balanced and as impressive as ever. $18 at OurCellar and Discount Wines.
An expressive and demonstrative riesling of spicy pear, lemon zest and exotic guava character, with a fine, almost gravelly mineral texture, perhaps a reflection of the ironstone soils of Frankland River. It’s approachable and friendly from day one, with a crisp, tangy finish and seamless balance. $13 at Banks Fine Wine.
Tash Mooney is very particular about pinot gris, treating the fruit from this single vineyard at the northern end of the Adelaide Hills to a long period on juice lees to build texture. Contact with grape skins has infused a pretty pale salmon hue. Enticing nashi pear and grapefruit pith flavours are encased in finely […]
A tangy and lively pinot of vibrant crimson red hue, tart morello cherry fruit, notes of brambles, spice and finely textured tannins. It’s well balanced, true to variety and region, and great value. $17 at No Frills Wine and Aussie Wines.