Saturday, May 29, 2021

Wickhams Road 2020 Yarra Valley Pinot Noir


If there is a better-value pinot noir to be found anywhere in Australia I would be gobsmacked. Wickhams Road is the entry level label for the brilliant Hoddles Creek wines produced by the d'Anna family of Boccaccio Cellars fame. With mainly cool Upper Yarra fruit and 20% whole bunch adding complexity, this has oodles of pinot personality with fresh dark berry aromas and mixed red berries on the palate. It is vibrant, varietal and very food-friendly. $21. www.hoddlescreekestate.com.au/

Thursday, May 20, 2021

Domaine Felines Jourdan 2019 AOP Picpoul de Pinet

 

Picpoul (or Piquepoul) de Pinet is a star grape variety in the deep south of France, producing oyster-friendly white wines in the style of Muscadet. This is the upmarket version from Domaine Felines Jourdan, based in the village of Meze on the edge of the Thau Lagoon in the Languedoc. It is perfumed, fresh and vibrant and pairs well with just about any seafood dish. It is unoaked (lees stirring adds palate interest) with tangy lemon zest notes, the merest hint of sea spray and delightful crisp acid on the finish. Well worth sampling. Imported by Red & White, who distribute it nationally. $35 http://www.felines-jourdan.com/

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

Taylors 2020 Estate Riesling

 

Wines don't get much more reliable than this one from family owned and operated Clare Valley producer Taylors. Year after year they come up with lively, fresh, vibrant and dry rieslings with lime. lemon and tropical fruit notes - and the estate version can sometimes be found for under $20, which is ridiculous value. This a crisp and refreshing, all-purpose white that finishes with lively balanced acidity. It would pair with anything from fish and chips to Asian dishes. Great work by winemaker Adam Eggins and his team. For those overseas, Taylors is known as Wakefield Estate to avoid confusion with the port producers. $22. 

www.taylorswines.com.au/