New Releases from Oxford Landing for the Summer

Posted on November 21, 2025 by Tony Peters

Who doesn’t enjoy summer? Not just for the warmer days, the less clothes we have to ‘carry’ around on our bodies or the amount of daylight we have thanks to daylight saving (in most states of Australia). As the days stretch longer, the shirt sleeves get shorter and trousers are left hanging in the wardrobe for a while, Oxford Landing has released a quartet of wines that feel tailor-made for the summer season ahead.

From a cheerful fizz to fruitful still wines, each bottle brings something different to the table for anyone and everyone yet they all share a common thread. Simplicity, charm, drinkability and honest value. Put them all on your bottle-shopping list for Christmas, New Year and anything in between because this lot suits any occasion.

Region: Riverland, SA     Price: $13 each     Source: Sample thanks kindly to Oxford Landing and  Hill- Smith Family Estates

Oxford Landing Sparkling Cuvée NV

There’s a cheerful nature to this sparkling, beginning with aromas of citrus and crisp apple. The palate follows being creamy, appley, and bright with acidity. A softness to the mousse gives it a quiet, celebratory feel. It’s not a ‘simple’ wine, but it’s not trying to be complex either, and that’s exactly the point it makes. Well made, well priced, and all the better for it. Eye-catching label, appealing flavours, and a price that will also attract attention. Nicely done I say.

2025 Moscato

I’ll admit, I don’t often reach for Moscato but I gave this one its moment in the glass. A gentle fizz opens into a floral bouquet and ripe stone fruit like peach, and pear. Sweetness leads, but soft acidity keeps it lively. There’s a surprising texture on the mid-palate, and the clean finish leaves just enough fruit to linger. Not my usual pick, but for lovers of lighter, sweeter styles, this will hit the right note. Easygoing, approachable, and made for sunny afternoons. Think garden party in a bottle.

2025 Rosé

Not a good start (sorry), the colour lacked a little excitement for me but, I’m never one to judge a book by its cover. Things changed from then on. While not especially aromatic, it offered just enough varietal character to hint at promise. Delicate red berries give this a good level of flavour that is persistent. It’s refreshingly crisp with a creaminess that adds a nice dimension to this bargain wine and finishing with a gentle sweetness that is sure to charm lovers of Rosé.

2024 Juicy Red

I hope I don’t offend the winemaker when I say, this wine is all about being the easy decision on any given day of the week. It’s a trackie dacs, t-shirt, feet-up kind of red wine for when white wine won’t do. Juicy and fruity, thanks to an abundance of red berries, it carries a charismatic charm that’s inclusive rather than showy. Don’t be afraid to chill it down a little. It’s flavourful yet soft on the palate, vibrant while still holding its red wine persona. Most importantly, it’s delicious to drink. That’s what it does well.

Posted in Other Reds, Other Whites, Red Blends, Rosé, Sparkling Wine | Leave a comment

Huntington Estate Sparkling Wine Releases

Posted on November 12, 2025 by Tony Peters

If you’re old enough to remember Kool & the Gang, you’ll recall their 1980 disco hit, “Celebration!” It is catchy, upbeat, and full of effervescent vivacity. I watched the film-clip and the band members were definitely celebrating alright, and dancing too. Giorgio Moroder is quoted as saying, “Disco is music for dancing, and people will always want to dance.”

And let’s be honest, nothing pairs with a celebration on the dance floor quite like a bubbles. It lifts the moment, elevates the mood, and brings people together in good times.

What better way to honour that spirit than with these two sparkling wines from Huntington Estate, each with a different take on effervescence, both made to “Celebrate good times, come on…Yahoo!”

Region: Mudgee, NSW     Source: Samples thanks kindly to Huntington Estate

2025 Estate Methode Charmat Grenache Rosé ($35)

With its pale pink hue and fine, persistent bubbles, this wine looks like celebration in a glass. Apple and cherry aromas tease the olfactory senses in a subtle yet confident way. On the palate, those same fruits return with more presence, fresh and flavourful, joined by a hint of creaminess that softens the crisp, dry finish. It’s got the rhythm of a disco earworm. Catchy, joyful, and hard to forget.  I can see why the Huntington Estate team are happy with this wine. It’s delightfully drinkable, and then some.

2024 Special Reserve Methode Traditionelle Chardonnay Pinot Noir ($55)

Upon pouring, the bubbles rise with gentle persistence, fine and elegant. The nose begins a little subdued but, give it a swirl to get the beads of bubbles going again and they release a light citrusy, yeasty and slightly toasty aromas. The palate unfurls with grace and sophistication. Citrus characters provide the foundation while pear and subtle tropical notes join the chorus. There’s a creamy softness through the mid-palate, and a crisp, dry finish that lingers like a well-placed chord.  Taking absolutely nothing away from the previous wine, this is indeed a quality sparkling wine. While the Charmat Rosé leans toward youthful vibrancy, this Special Reserve sparkling is crafted with complexity and generosity. It carries depth, elegance and refinement.

Together, these two sparklings from Huntington Estate offer more than just effervescence. They offer mood, movement, and meaning. One dances with youthful charm, the other glides with graceful elegance. Whether you’re raising a glass on the dance floor or toasting quietly among friends, they remind us that celebration comes in many forms. And when the bubbles rise, so too do the good times. Yahoo!

Posted in Chardonnay, Grenache, Pinot Noir, Sparkling Wine | Leave a comment

4 New Releases from Aristotelis ke Anthoula

Posted on November 1, 2025 by Tony Peters

“The greatness of art is not to find what is common but what is unique,” said Nobel Prize-winning author Isaac Bashevis Singer. I can’t recall where I first saw this quote, but it clearly struck a chord. I wrote it down without hesitation.

That sentiment echoes through every sip of Aristotelis ke Anthoula’s new release wines. These are wines that don’t follow, they lead. They’re not trying to be familiar, pedestrian. They’re trying to be unforgettable, memorable. And that’s the lens through which I tasted each of these four new releases. Each one had its own voice, its own rhythm, and its own individuality, saying, “Can you meet me where I am? Not where you think I should be.”

So, here are my thoughts. Not from comparisons, but from curiosity, and from when uniqueness triggered my taste buds and exposed the ‘art’ of these wines that only Aristotelis ke Anthoula can do.

Aristotelis ke Anthoula Website

Region: Various, NSW     Source: Samples courtesy of Aristotelis ke Anthoula Wines

2024 Chenin Blanc (Gundagai, NSW) ($39)

I am a fan of Chenin Blanc. I can’t remember who introduced me to it but I am so glad they did. Seeing examples like this one pique my interest in the variety even more.  This one is varietal yet it has a fresh and exciting feel to it. Plenty of peach, pear and apple characters get things up and running. Lovely clean citrus notes stimulate the palate as some lovely skinsy like texture comes in to balance it all out very nicely. Bright yet savoury, generous yet restrained, it’s not trying to be anything other than itself and that’s its strength. It’s a fascinating wine that I really enjoyed.

2024 Retsini (Riverland, NSW) ($42)

I have to admit, I didn’t know how to approach this wine. Reading the notes, it is something so far removed from anything I have tried but it drew me in. Made from Muscat of Alexandria grapes and fermented with Aleppo pine resin from a small mountain village in Greece (I’ve got your attention now I bet) but don’t be alarmed. That ‘resin’ is subtle and complementary, adding to the vibrant and juicy fruit. There’s ripe apricot, concentrated peach juice and a gentle herbal influence too. It’s complex, yes, but also clear in its intent and easy to enjoy. Sorry, but it’s hard to describe, but that’s part of its charm. It is so interestingly and thought provocably drinkable. Go for it I say!

2024 Blood Orange (Gundagai, NSW) ($38)

There is something profoundly cool about this wine. It defies easy categorisation and I mean that in a good way. Made from two white varieties (50% Fiano, 30% Vermentino) and one red variety (20% Nero d’Avola) that have clearly enjoyed being co-fermented, comes a wine with quiet confidence and a playful vivacity. Juicy dark cherries are nicely balanced by some red berry freshness, if you like, with a citrus ‘lift’ that rounds things off on the finish giving it a refreshing touch to go out on. This is a wine that doesn’t ask for patience. Far from it. It is present and accountable and sometimes that’s exactly what we like in our wines. Good gear!

2024 Nanima Road (Murrumbateman) Pinot Noir ($45)

I am, unashamedly, a Pinot Noir lover! I will also openly admit to very much looking forward to tasting this wine. Coming from a state that makes very special Pinot Noir, I found this one from Murrumbateman quite compelling. A lovely colour in the glass, I couldn’t wait to dive in. Cherry and plum fruits, and a little earthiness on the nose when poured spoke of its variety. Tick! Those same fruits lead the way on the flavourful palate and let you know that’s what it’s all about. Some gentle spice notes and a touch of oak play a part, even the acidity and tannins have a quiet say in the wine’s attractive character. Gee I liked this wine. So silky smooth, elegant, refined and lovingly lengthy.

Posted in Other Reds, Other Whites, Pinot Noir, Red Blends | Leave a comment

2020 Paulett Wines 109 Reserve Shiraz

Posted on October 30, 2025 by Tony Peters

“If you are not too long, I will wait here for you all my life.” I found this quote from Oscar Wilde quite interesting. It suggests a willingness to be patient, but not endlessly so. Some wines reward early drinking while others ask for time, and then there are those crafted for both the present and the years ahead. Oscar Wilde’s words speak to the quiet devotion of patience, the belief that something truly worth experiencing will arrive in its own time. And when it does, it will be worth every moment. The 2020 Pauletts 109 Reserve Shiraz is firmly in this camp.

Paulett Wines Website

Region: Clare Valley, SA     Price: $120     Source: Generous Gift

When I poured this wine into the glass, it showed presence and purpose. The deep, dense red colour, then the dark fruit aromas, spoke volumes. This was off to a special start. Ripe dark berries dominate the palate, complemented by licorice notes and a touch of spice. The tannins are a little grippy and obvious, but let’s face it, this is built for the long haul, and that’s what it’s telling you. It was certainly the message I got because on the third day of tasting this wine, it had settled down very nicely indeed into a lush and sumptuous wine. Crafted as a tribute to Neil Paulett, the 109th graduate of Roseworthy College, this wine carries the weight of Neil’s experience and the confidence of his legacy. Let it rest. Let it speak in its own time. It will. Just be patient.

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Maclean Bay Current Release Pinot Noirs

Posted on October 11, 2025 by Tony Peters

Dr Who has been around for what seems like forever (since1963 in case you were wondering). As a kid I remember seeing it on ABC television and I’ll be honest and say, the storylines never really captured my attention (although, who could forget the Daleks!).  At such a young age, it was always The Tardis that had me thinking how a small British Police Box could be so vast inside. It got to the stage, later in life, when I realised that it all had to do with how television worked in those days. Pretty smart for its time don’t you think?

These two wines almost seem like a Tardis as they sit in their respective glasses. They are both a Pinot Noir. That is what you see. However, there is so much more contained within them that can only be experienced once you move closer to each glass and ‘open the door’ to smell and taste them and whatever else they reveal to your senses.

Maclean Bay Wines Website

Region: East Coast, Tas     Source: Sample thanks kindly to Maclean Bay Wines

2024 Pinot Noir ($43)

The aromas are just plain inviting. Red and black fruits leap out of the glass, with a hint of spice that adds interest. On the palate, it leans just under medium-bodied, but there’s a ripe fruit character that steps in and says, “I’m here!” and I mean that in the best possible way. It gives the wine presence, a bit of swagger even. Dark cherry and berry fruits take the lead, but there’s a slight fresh raspberry/red fruit vibe that keeps things lively. A whisper of spice (just enough to notice) joins the party, and it all finishes smooth, memorable, and seriously satisfying. Everything about this wine says, ‘ENJOY.’ Yep, capital letters included. It’s youthful, vibrant, and approachable, and it’s got drinkability in spades. In a word? Moreish.

2023 Maclean Bay Basket Pressed Pinot Noir ($53)

This one grabbed me straight away, more intense on the nose than the previous wine, and I was instantly excited. Black cherry, dark berry, plum, and a spiciness set me up perfectly for what was to come. Sure, it leans into the darker fruit spectrum on the palate, but it still sits beautifully in that medium-bodied zone, where everything just works. There’s cool-climate spice, a silky texture, fine tannins, and terrific length. It’s all there. Let’s be honest, when something a little ‘extra’ is printed on a label, like “Basket Pressed,” you expect something special. And this wine delivers. Maybe it’s because of the Basket Pressed fruit. Maybe it’s the flow/soul that seems to come with every bottle of Tasmanian Pinot. Either way, it’s delightful.

Posted in Pinot Noir | Leave a comment

Huntington Estate New Red Wine Releases

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Tony Peters

I don’t often receive responses or feedback about my reviews, good or bad, but when I do, it means a great deal. So I’d like to take this opportunity to show my appreciation to Huntington Estate.

They’ve been incredibly kind with their feedback, and I find myself genuinely humbled. It reminds me why I write these notes in the first place, not to impress (far from it), but to honour the craft, the people behind the wine, and the joy they bring not just to me, but to their loyal customers.

This time, amongst others, they sent me three reds to review. Each one carries its own voice, its own place, and its own sense of belonging to the Mudgee region. From the fresh-faced Nouveau that opens the show with a smile, to the quietly confident Grenache, and onto the juicy, very moreish Shiraz Cabernet, these wines speak of Mudgee, of intent, and of individuality.

Here’s what I found in the glass.

Region: Mudgee, NSW     Source: Samples thanks kindly to Huntington Estate

2024 Estate Nouveau ($34)

Hello Nouveau! This has fresh, fruitful and a little spicy aromas that welcomingly lives up to the meaning of Nouveau with ease and is the perfect opening act to the main show. Ripe red fruits to the fore with a nice spicey layer and an earthiness like character in there too gives it a grounding to the excitement it offers. Interestingly, the tannins still have a say but it’s the lovely fruit that brings them back into line and keeps everything in balance. If you live in the warmer climes as I do, you could chill this just a little but not to the point of drowning out the freshness it exudes. It deserves your attention.

2024 Estate Grenache ($34)

“I’m not the kind of person who tries to be cool or trendy, I’m definitely an individual,” said Leonardo DiCaprio. I mention this because Grenache is back in fashion in the more ‘Grenache’ parts of Australia. But this particular wine? It’s not chasing trends. It’s doing its own thing, and good on it. Bright red fruits lead the way, joined by a touch of spice and an earthy backbone that lends character and charm. It’s not perfectly poised just yet, a little warmth creeps in, nudging the balance but it’s a wine still finding its feet, and there’s no shame in that. It’s not trying to be McLaren Vale or Barossa. It’s quietly confident in being Mudgee, and it succeeds at being just that. And that’s more than enough.

2022 Estate Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon ($34)

Considering the blend, I found the colour to be very intriguing. It had a translucent yet pretty redness which was more of a prompt to get in and taste the wine. But, me being me, I had to dive my nose in and so glad I did. Cherry, red currants, a little oak poking through, a licoricey-ness too and delicate spice. The best way for me to describe the palate is, juicy and moreish! (exclamation mark intended) A cacophony of red and black fruits combine to provide a smile prompting sensation while a little peppery note adds a touch of savouriness with a slight herbal note completing the wine. The tannins are obvious and a little drying but these wines a built to last so this is not unexpected as it finishes delightfully long.

Posted in Grenache, Red Blends | Leave a comment

Renzaglia Wines New ‘Central Ranges’ Red Wine Collection

Posted on October 5, 2025 by Tony Peters

There is soooo much talk of AI these days and the broad range of uses it has. From what I have read, it is being used to complete things such as University essays, create CVs for job applications and even for putting together a recorded press release for politicians (who are probably not as intelligent as the artificial version). I have to say, I am not particularly computer savvy so, apart from one I have been told about, I don’t know how many of these AI applications are out there to either take advantage of and/or be abused.

After tasting these wines and making notes, I put them into one of the AI platforms to see what I would get from it. I must say the results were, well, how can I put this, different and not like me in any way. I can only assume it compared my notes to others out there in the internet world and, as I have always said, I do things a little differently when it comes to posting a wine review. Safe to say, AI is not for me.

Renzaglia Wines Website

Region: Central Ranges, NSW     Price: $37 each     Source: Sample thanks kindly to Renzaglia Wines and Define Wine

2024 Pinot Noir (Patina Vinyard, Orange)

I love where this sits in the Pinot Noir spectrum. It gives everything to consider when it comes to the variety yet gives a little more to please the red wine buffs expecting body and boldness. Aromatically it is varietal but it goes up a notch on the palate where red cherries provide the initial fruit focus, but there is a mid-palate pluminess that gives it depth and width. There is a nice herbal note that chimes in and a delicate savoury/spicy influence that gives it really good character. It is really smooth and palate pleasing as it finishes with those varietal characteristics having the final say. It’s a big yes from me.

2024 Sangiovese (First Ridge Vineyard, Mudgee)

This wine perfectly illustrates why Sangiovese is such a popular food partner, not just in Italy, but around the world. The versatility, the flavours, the all-around deliciousness, and the affordability all make it a winner. Seeing wines like this, and many others, thriving in Australia is a testament to those who saw its potential also in Mudgee, New South Wales. All I can say is, thank you. Lovely dark cherry and red fruit notes shine through, complemented by hints of spice and herbal notes. The palate is deliciously lush, with fine, unobtrusive tannins as it finishes fruitful and invitingly smooth. Good gear!

2024 Grenache Tempranillo (Wallington Vineyard, Canowindra)

What I’m about to say goes a bit against the grain for me, but this is your go-to wine for pizza, barbeque lamb chops, an afternoon charcuterie board and anything else in that delicious, casual vein. This has so many complementary elements to those sorts of foods and it wears that distinction proudly. The Grenache brings juicy red fruit freshness, while the Tempranillo adds body, earthiness, and a savory mid-palate complexity. All these elements come together beautifully to create a wine that’s deliciously and flavourfully balanced. The ‘yum’ factor is high with this blend, that’s for sure.

Posted in Grenache, Other Reds, Pinot Noir | Leave a comment

A Couple of New Release White Wines and Rosé from Huntington Estate

Posted on October 2, 2025 by Tony Peters

How lucky am I? Like many other wine reviewers, although I wouldn’t place myself among the upper echelon of critics, I’m fortunate enough to taste wines that have just been released, or are yet to make their debut in the wine drinker’s world. For me, it’s a bit like sitting front row at the opening night of a local theatre production, watching debut performers give it their all, striving and hoping to impress. That’s the kind of energy and anticipation I feel when I open a bottle from Huntington Estate that winemaker and producer, Tim Stevens, has brought to the stage. I genuinely appreciate the opportunity they’ve given me to be part of this moment.

This particular performance features three very different acts. A fragrant and expressive Gewürztraminer, a barrel-fermented Chardonnay that promises depth and character, and a vibrant Rosé with plenty of charm. Each one brings its own personality to the stage, and I was more than happy to sit back, sip, and enjoy this show that’s for sure.

Region: Mudgee, NSW     Source: Samples thanks kindly to Huntington Estate

2025 Estate Gewürztraminer (RRP $28)

Two words. Aromatic intensity! Tropical fruits dominate the nose, lifted by a subtle hint of rose petals. On the palate, those tropical notes carry through, joined by a gentle touch of citrus-like characters adding brightness. It sits just above light-bodied with some textural feel that gives it a deceptively rich-ish-ness (in a good way) that is offset by a good dose of acidity keeping things lively. A hint of spice glides in toward the finish, which is, dare I say, ‘clean’ (not my favourite term, but it fits) and refreshingly and mouth-puckeringly crisp thanks to that acidity. I liked this wine and I think it will prove popular.

2023 Estate Barrel Fermented Chardonnay (RRP $35)

The nose is flinty and limey with a gentle cashew note. Subtle, yet incredibly aromatically inviting. From the first sip, richness and elegance walk hand in hand. There’s texture here, creamy and smooth, but never heavy. Peach and melon provide the plush fruit intensity that takes centre stage while the delightful acidity lifts the palate, adding freshness and finesse making it vibrant and full of charm. This may have spent some time in seasoned oak but it has had no influence, and honestly, it doesn’t need it. This wine speaks clearly and confidently without embellishment. The length is impressive as the flavours slowly fade away. A terrific Chardonnay, no doubt. One that reminds you why balance is everything.

2025 Estate Pinot Noir Dry Rosé (RRP $28)

Lovely colour! I know there are expectations and ‘normal’ things when it comes to Rosé, but let’s be honest, it’s the colour that first captures your attention. Strawberries and raspberries set off the olfactory senses, joined by apple blossom and a hint of apple-like acidity playing an aromatic part. The palate is quite fulsome yet soft, thanks to Pinot Noir’s charm as a variety. It’s creamily textural, with that apple-like acidity chiming in to add freshness and balance. There’s certainly plenty of flavour, and it sits nicely right through to the dry finish. A winner in our home!

Posted in Chardonnay, Other Whites, Rosé | Leave a comment

Yalumba Y Series ‘$10K Your Way’ Promotion

Posted on September 28, 2025 by Tony Peters

Who doesn’t love the chance to win stuff? Especially the kind that doesn’t require much exercise, brings you pleasure, and could benefit you.

It’s no secret I’ve been a fan of Y Series wines for quite a few years now. Sure, they’re affordable, but it’s not just about the price. It’s what these wines deliver for their cost that really makes them stand out. Simply put, they’re great value even when they are not discounted by major retailers.

I have to share this paragraph from an email I received because it’s so genuine and unpretentious:

“Y Series was created to make great wine minus the fuss—just easy-going, flavour-packed wines for any occasion. Since then, Y Series’ mission has been to keep wine approachable, expressive, and never too serious—because there is and always has been a Y for every Why.” That rings so true for these wines.

Now, Yalumba’s Y Series is giving shoppers and savvy wine lovers the chance to win ‘$10K Your Way’ cash or travel vouchers for three lucky winners across Australia and New Zealand. The competition runs from September through December this year. And if that hasn’t caught your attention yet, there’s more (and no, it’s not steak knives) 100 instant prizes of $100 Ticketek gift cards.

Here in sunny Queensland, I grabbed the latest Riesling, Sangiovese Rosé, and Viognier, three favourites in our home. The Riesling bursts with lemons, limes, and soft acidity. The Sangiovese Rosé is dry, flavourful, and incredibly drinkable. And the Viognier is true to its variety, perfect for a pool-side afternoon, and fantastic value.

So go ahead—grab a bottle, raise your glass, and who knows? Your next sip might just come with a $10K surprise.

Y Series Wines Website

Region: South Australia    Price: $15 (I picked up these for 2 for $20)     Source: Retail purchase

Posted in Other Whites, Riesling, Rosé | Leave a comment

Renzaglia Wines New ‘Central Ranges’ White Wine Collection

Posted on September 26, 2025 by Tony Peters

“There is not a sprig of grass that shoots uninteresting to me,” said Thomas Jefferson

That quote has been sitting with me lately, and it feels especially fitting as I explore the wines of Renzaglia for the first time. There’s something deeply satisfying about discovering a new producer, one that doesn’t shout, but shoots its hand up from within the crowded wine world and quietly invites you to lean in and listen.

Winemaker Sam Renzaglia said, “In the winery, our approach is guided by the essence of each variety. We aim to capture their inherent character without interference, which means no added yeast, tannin, sugar, or acid. We’re using very little new oak and instead working with an array of fermentation and maturation vessels: concrete, earthenware amphorae, stainless steel, foudre, puncheons, barriques and even glass. It’s an elaborate toolbox designed to nurture wines that are engaging, honest, and true to their origins.”

After tasting each of these three whites, I couldn’t help but think how true this is. The Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay offered something distinct, something worth noticing. From the citrus-driven charm of the Riesling to the textural intrigue of the Pinot Gris, and the confident elegance of the Chardonnay, these wines showed themselves individually and stylistically true to the varieties. And like Jefferson’s sprig of grass, none of them were uninteresting. I’ll be keeping an eye on Renzaglia.

Renzaglia Wines Website

Region: Central Ranges, Orange Region, NSW     Price: $37 each     Source: Sample thanks kindly to Renzaglia Wines and Define Wine

2024 Riesling (Patina Vineyard)

Yes, it’s so varietal on the nose, but there’s an elevated attractiveness about it that says, “Come on in. We have much to tell you about.” Everything is delightfully citrus-driven and refreshingly so, it’s hard not to keep checking it out. Limes and lemons share the load on the taste buds, but there’s an unexpected textural note that adds an intriguing character. Further, and dare I say, repeated tasting revealed a lovely drying yet moreish acidity on the crisp and refreshing finish. It’s not only long, but it invites another tasting. A delightful Riesling indeed.

2024 Pinot Gris (ChaLou Vineyard)

What a variety this is. It’s been sitting in that curious gap between Sav Blanc drinkers and other white varieties that have long been given more attention, but Pinot Gris is fast becoming a genuine alternative to Sav Blanc. This one makes a bold case. It’s clearly aimed at the Gen Z wine drinker, and I’ve no doubt it’ll catch their eye. I’m so pleased the winemaking crew gave it the colour it deserves, thanks to time spent on its mother-grape skins, bringing texture, a gentle spiciness, and those typically pear-driven characters (and I mean that in a good way). It’s a very different take on the variety that will divide opinion but there’s also a ‘feel good’ nature to this wine that purveys confidence and I admire that.

2024 Chardonnay (Patina Vineyard)

I’m a fan of Chardonnay, and I’m so pleased it continues to be a variety that producers, especially small ones like this, are proud to release in quality form to the wine world. Just a heads up: the aromas draw you in straight away, and there’s no going back. Aromas and palate flavours are very much in sync. All the stone fruit characters play a part, with pear flesh, creamy texture, and a ginger spice-like note (perhaps?) adding intrigue. It sits so lightfully yet definitively on the palate. Yes, it’s varietal, but there’s an intriguing nature about it too, something that pulls you in to find out more. My pick of the three whites.

Posted in Chardonnay, Other Whites, Riesling | Leave a comment