Wolf Blass 2019 Grey Label Adelaide Hills Chardonnay

 

There are so many colours and labels in the Wolf Blass/Eaglehawk wine range that it is all too easy to become confused. Platinum, Black, Grey, Yellow, Red, Brown. You name it, there is a Wolf Blass range in tat colour. This, however, is where the value sweet spot lies. This Adelaide Hills chardonnay offers all all the pizzaz and excitement of a boutique label for around $30. The fruit for Grey Label Chardonnay is sourced from Piccadilly and Lenswood and this has a real buzz about it; cool-climate purity and lovely balance with French oak providing support without stealing the show. Lees stirring has added complexity to a really lovely drink. 93 points for this one. $32. www.wolfblass.com/

Yangarra 2018 King's Wood Shiraz

 

Sorry Team Yangarra. I cheated a little with this one. I read couple of reviews saying it was a long-term prospect, so put it away for a few months. The wait was well worth it, however, with this organic and biodynamic shiraz from McLaren Vale drinking superbly right now. A portion of whole-bunch fruit adds texture, while aging in a big oak foudres has contributed style to savoury/spicy wine that would grace any dinner party. Plummy fruit is to the fore; there is plenty of length and it would be a brilliant match for a winter casserole. You might find some left in retail outlets. Happy to give 96/100. $55. www.yangarra.com

 

Pertaringa 2019 Undercover Shiraz

The Pertaringa range - now part of Bec Hardy Wines - has tended to fly a little under the radar but that won't be the case for much longer with wines of this value on offer from the McLaren Vale operation. As the temperatures start to drop, a few bottles of medium-bodied, soft dry red are essential in every cellar. This is a versatile drink; soft, smooth and pleasingly complex with plum and berry flavours to the fore, a hint of spice and a dash of sass. French and American oak adds to a very pleasing overall package for $25. https://bechardy.com.au/our-wines/pertaringa/undercover-shiraz-2019/