The Crayères vineyard is in the Wrattonbully GI, located just north of Coonawarra and south of Padthaway. The climate in Wrattonbully is very similar to Bordeaux, so it is no surprise that cabernet sauvignon does so well. More surprisingly, so does shiraz. Xavier Bizot and Lucy Croser have produced a real tantaliser with this blend of shiraz and cabernet franc, with its medium body, dark red fruit and chalky tannins, integrated oak and stoney minerality. A wine of balance and length. An each way bet. Drink now, or cellar for up to five years. $40. https://terreaterre.com.au
Here is a wine that offers superb value for money vintage after vintage. How the Hallett family in Frankland River manage to produce such a stylish, charming chardy for under $20 beats me, but it is certainly good news for canny consumers. Fresh and lively, I suspect unoaked, this is a terrific midweek drinking proposition, ideal for quaffing after work or pairing with a stir-fry or salad. Terrific buying. $18. www.alkoomiwines.com.au.
Risky Business is a joint venture between grape grower/viticulturist Rob Quenby and vintner John Waldron, who source fruit from Western Australia and Victoria’s King Valley, producing mainly small batches. This is a fresh, particularly appealing new release with lively pear and green apple flavours and vibrant acidity. More grigio than gris in my book and a terrific wine for enjoying young and a good match for Thai dishes. $25.
www.riskybusinesswines.com.au
