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Misha Wilkinson's Central Otago pinots noir have built up a considerable following in New Zealand - and subsequently in Asia - and now have major distribution in Australia through Fesq and Co. All three pinots in the range were impressive but this was the one I would choose to drink right now. It's on the bigger side of the spectrum at 14.2% alcohol but its a metrosexual wine with beautiful balance and everything in place. You'll find black and red berry notes, some spice, moccha hints and lovely softness on the finish. Drink now, or cellar. Your call. $51. www.mishasvineyard.com.
Young Hunter Valley semillon remains one of Australia's most under-appreciated wine styles, which is downright hard to fathom when there are wines like this available for under $20. Mike de Iuliis is one of the most talented young winemakers around and he's done a great job with this fresh and vibrant young wine which is appealing lean; like a slinky catwalk model with just enough meat on her bones. There are fresh and lime and grapefruit aromas on the nose, followed up by intense zingy citrus on the palate and crunchy acidity. A crisp youngster that will be perfect for summer enjoyment - and it's a bargain to boot. $18. www.dewine.com.au.
McLaren Vale winemaking icon d'Arenberg this year celebrates its 100th birthday - and the range is bigger and more eclectic than ever. This is one of the more "out there" blends in the range, a combination of Spanish grape tempranillo, local favourite shiraz and two Portuguese grapes, tinta cao and souzao, both rarely seen outside the Douro. What I liked most about this wine were the savoury notes allied to the impressive fruit intensity and interest you generally find in d'Arenberg wines. An earthy, delicatessen nose leads on dark cherry/mixed spice flavours with sous bois hints. This a smooth, mellow wine, content in its own skin but with an interesting Latin attitude. $30.
There is a compelling and profoundly sad
story about the brothers Dos Pablos, the creators of this wine. Unfortunately,
none of it is true - although it does make for a great (and very funny) read.
Check out www.wirrawirra.com/lib/pdf/MediaReleases/Esperanza_HopeIsTheThingWithFeathers.pdf Made by the team at Wirra
Wirra in McLaren Vale, along with a partner monastrell, this wine is a
flagbearer for the new Iberian-style wines the company hopes will shine in the
Vale. It is a dark, earthy, spicy and complex wine with great tannin structure.
Most enjoyable. $35. www.esperanza-wine.com
