Brave New Wine 2019 Pi-Oui Pinot Noir

 

This might already have sold out - but keep your eyes peeled just in case. Just three barrels of this intriguing pinot noir were made by Andries and and Yoko Lüscher-Mostert, rising stars in West Australia's Great Southern. This is made from Porongurup fruit that was whole-bunch picked, indigenously fermented, unfined, unfiltered and is full of sass and attitude. If this was a band it would be early The Clash. I had a glass at Havilah wine bar in Launceston and quickly snaffled the remainder of the bottle.Greedy me! $38. 

www.bravenewwine.com.au/

Glen Garvald 2019 PB White Blend No.1

 

Glen Garvald is a new label from Yarra Valley standout Levantine Hill, with winemaker Paul Bridgeman given the opportunity to explore the boundaries of lesser-known grape varieties. This is a striking blend of six varieties that deliver an impressive ensemble performance. The make-up comprises muscadelle, roussanne and viognier paired with smaller amounts of sauvignon blanc, semillon and chardonnay to deliver a textural blend that soars when paired with a dish like roast chicken. Asian aromas and spice notes add to the end result. A lovely wine this. $50. www.levantinehill.com.au/

Mitchell 2020 Watervale Riesling

 

Clare Valley producers Mitchell are are one of my RV favourites. R for reliability and V for value. Year in, year out, this is one of the best dry rieslings in Australia, as well as offering formidable value. This is, as always, all about bright, crunchy citrus flavours and tangy acid minerality on the finish. Pair with oysters naturale, or pan-fried King George Whiting. Lovely. An affordable classic. $24. www.mitchellwines.com 

Taylors 2019 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

 

How do they do it? A wine of balance and style for around $20. This is a widely available blend of fruit from the Clare Valley, where the Taylor family planted their first vineyard, and the Limestone Coast region. Classic Australian red flavours of berry, plum and dark currant with a hint of chocolate. This has plenty of presence and personality and is a terrific every drinking red. Versatile, too, with red or white meat dishes. $22. www.taylorswines.com.au.