Patritti Urban Vineyard Collection NV Marion Vineyard Minimum 12 Year Old Grenache Tawny B001

 

It seems remarkable that wine grapes are still being grown right in the suburbs of Adelaide. The grenache fruit for this delicious tawny were grown in the the City of Marion, which was once known as the ‘Garden of Adelaide’. Since 2006, the Patritti family have been custodians of the historic Marion Vineyard on Oaklands Road on the banks of the Sturt River, which was planted in 1907. The label map shows its location. Batch 001 is a blend from the 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009 vintages and has toffee, honey aromas leading to a light, sweet palate with butterscotch and rich toffee flavours that is dangerously enticing. This could be enjoyed after dinner, chilled, or even poured over vanilla ice cream. $40 for 500ml. https://patritti.com.au/

Cullen 2021 Mangan Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc Semillon

 

Earlier this year I was fortunate enough to be a guest at the 50th birthday celebrations at Cullen Wines in Margaret River. Vanya Cullen and her teams are leaders when it comes to organics and biodynamics, but I was also taken with the attention to detail across the range; from flagships like Kevin John and Diana Madeline to "midweek" drinks like this white blend. Sauvignon blanc/semillon blends are not currently in vogue, but defy the fashion trends and enjoy a terrific summer white for quaffing enjoyment. Six percent of verdelho adds some tropical fruit notes to this very refreshing wine. $29. www.cullenwines.com.au  

O'Leary Walker 2021 Polish Hill River Riesling

This is the perfect dry white wine for summer enjoyment; fresh, crisp and deliciously drinkable with or without food. Made from fruit grown in perhaps the best sub-region of the Clare Valley for quality riesling, this is priced at well below what other regional benchmarks cost. Winemaker David O'Leary says it is "lively, but elegant" so think floral aromas, classic citrus notes, brisk minerality and hints of lemon talc. Brilliant with pan-fried fish and can be found for under the RPP on special. $30. www.olearywalkerwines.com/

Dog Point 2019 Pinot Noir

 

Australians are spoilt for choice with cool-climate pinot noirs of the highest quality from Tasmania and Victoria, but New Zealand also has a lot to offer when it comes to pleasing pinotphiles. From Marlborough, rather than pinot central in Central Otago, this is crafted by a team who cut their teeth at Cloudy Bay but whose wines often eclipse those from that icon. This is bright and floral with crunchy red apple and red berry fruit flavours, herbal hints, subtle oak and impressive texture. Made from organically grown fruit, this finishes soft and smooth and is seriously delicious. Pair with Chinese roast duck for maximum pleasure. $49. https://dogpoint.co.nz/

Tokar Estate 2021 Pet Nat

 

Tokar Estate in the Yarra Valley has just released its first Pét Nat, which is great news for all hipsters looking for a bright pink fizzy drink for summer enjoyment. Ideal for picnics or a day on St Kilda Beach, the new bubbly has a distinct taste of sour pear drops, and found favour with my natural wine-loving constituents. For non hipsters, Pét Nat is short for Pétillant Naturel, which is French for “naturally sparkling”. Wines made in this style use the natural gases produced during fermentation to create funky, lo-fi wines. Be careful opening this one as it cascades from the bottle, unleashing citrus, berry, pear drop and brioche notes. $25. tokarestate.com.au