First Ridge 2025 Uova Bella Fiano Vermentino

Having tried impressive First Ridge 2025 fiano and vermentino releases just a few weeks ago, I was surprised to see this blend of the two varieties arrive from the same Mudgee winery. Having now tasted the blend I understand the reasoning. While the two single variety wines were fresh and crisp - fun wines for summer - this marriage of Sicilian and Sardinian flavours was fermented in an imported terracotta egg - a modern take on ancient amphorae. That has resulted in a blend that is more than the sum of its two parts; altogether more structural and potentially longer lived. The lees contact adds complexity without any oak involvement. The blend is 60% fiano and 40% vermentino. Impressively different. $45. www.firstridge.com.au.

Hesketh 2024 Small Batch Pinot Blanc

 
We don't grow, or drink, a lot of pinot blanc in Australia, which is a pity, as it is a good choice for our outdoor lifestyle. There is a lot of it grown in Alsace, Germany and Hungary and it appears well suited to the cooler Adelaide Hills. This displays a nifty balance between fresh fruit vibrancy and textural palate interest, with some of the fruit fermented in stainless steel and a portion in older oak on yeast lees. There are apple and pear orchard flavours here with brisk acid,  but also some richer palate structure. It is hard to imagine any white wine lover not enjoying this given its versatility. An excellent wine for the price. Match with fish or poultry dishes, or maybe some Thai fishcakes. $28. https://heskethwinecompany.com.au/