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

2020 Levantine Hill Katherine’s Paddock Chardonnay

Posted on September 24, 2025 by Tony Peters

“Your dresses should be tight enough to show you’re a woman and loose enough to show you’re a lady,” said the late Edith Head, an American film costume designer and I think wine can be like this. Getting the balance between being alluring and confident, yet showing refinement and grace in any setting, requires skill and finesse. Edith Head clearly had both, having won multiple Academy Awards for her work. Levantine Hill winemaker Paul Bridgeman continues to show his meticulous attention to detail by consistently crafting award-winning wines.

I think the quote is perfectly tailored to this 2020 Katherine’s Paddock Chardonnay. A wine that reveals its character with confidence and subtle power while maintaining precision and sophistication without being overbearing, all of which seems to be the heart of its appeal.

Levantine Hill Website

Region: Yarra Valley, Vic     Price: $125     Source: Sample thanks kindly to Levantine Hill

Strength and grace carry through from the first swirl of the glass to the final sip. The seductive, rich aromas of pear, lime, subtle oak and a little flint get things started beautifully. The palate has depth, generosity and elegance nicely wrapped around ripe pear, vanilla, a little spice, and ‘balancing’ acidity. The oak is there but plays the perfect supportive role, and a creamy, textural mouthfeel adds a lovely dimension to the wine. Yes, it has plenty of palate weight but it sits pretty, not heavy, as is evident on the long and mighty impressive finish.

Posted in Chardonnay | Leave a comment

Winesmiths Latest Collaboration – Acclaimed South Australian Artist Claire Ishino

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Tony Peters

Winesmiths, the innovative wine-on-tap brand from Hill-Smith Family Estates, is proud to release its latest collaboration with acclaimed South Australian artist Claire Ishino. Launching a limited edition series of 2-litre casks across Australia and New Zealand from September to December 2025, the collection celebrates the shared connection to South Australia’s vibrant natural landscape.

Ishino’s designs, inspired by native flora and the ever-changing light during the day, wrap each of the five varietals of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Rosé, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, in a visual story portrayed by her intricately detailed and uplifting artwork. Each design also reflecting Winesmiths’ commitment to sustainability and artistry. “It’s about celebrating the beauty of our environment and encouraging people to tread lightly,” Ishino shared, highlighting the harmony between her creative vision and Winesmiths’ continued eco-conscious philosophy.

In support of this shared environmental ethos, Winesmiths will donate $25,000 to Greenfleet, a leading not-for-profit organisation focused on restoring ecosystems and capturing carbon emissions through biodiverse reforestation. “This partnership is more than packaging. It’s a meaningful dialogue between art, wine and the land that sustains us,” said Jack Glover, Executive Director of Marketing & Sales.

And as always, these casks deliver the great value Winesmiths is known for and I was lucky enough to try two them.

Region: Various, Australia     Price: $16     Source: Samples thanks kindly to Yalumba and Winesmiths

Winesmiths Website

2025 Dry Rosé

Don’t judge a wine by its packaging, please. This rosé may come in a humble 2 litre cask, but it delivers excellent value for summer afternoons, whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a camping trip under the stars. Expect upfront flavours of fresh strawberries, watermelon pulp, and a hint of musk, all wrapped in a crisp, dry finish. It’s uncomplicated, as you’d expect, but that’s part of its charm I reckon. For casual, easy-drinking refreshment, it offers really good value.

2024 Cabernet Sauvignon

Another of the humble 2 litre casks I had the pleasure of trying, and it didn’t disappoint. Dark berries lead the charge, with a generous splash of dark cherry and a delicate herbal, leafy note. There’s even a (very) subtle hint of oak, and a plum-rich finish that fills out the palate nicely. This Cabernet Sauvignon offers excellent value, perfect for summer barbecues or fireside chats on camping adventures. Uncomplicated, yes, but far from forgettable

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Loire Red Wines with a Focus on Cabernet Franc

Posted on August 30, 2025 by Tony Peters

I’m a big fan of the Northern and Southern Hemisphere set up. It gives those living in the mid-range areas of each sphere a chance to appreciate what they have and what others are experiencing on the opposite side of the globe. And let’s not forget the travel perks. Being able to escape each other’s cooler months is a win-win.

At any given time of year, one hemisphere is basking in warmth while the other embraces the chill. But when it comes to wine, I’d like to think it doesn’t really matter what season it is or what time of year it is. Whether you’re heading into cooler months where red wine pairs beautifully with hearty meat dishes, or gearing up for summer weekends filled with (almost compulsory) barbecues, wine is meant to be enjoyed with frivolity, food, family, and friends.

What I love about Cabernet Franc, especially these three Loire Valley expressions, is how they showcase the variety’s versatility. From the easygoing, budget-friendly bottle perfect for a relaxed barbecue, to the two more refined versions with a bit more punch, all three share an inherent approachability. They’re different, yet united by a sense of place and purpose.

Region: Loire Valley, France     Source: Sample thanks kindly to Vinsdeloire and Hopscotch Season Groupe 

2023 Famille Bougrier ‘Confidences’, Chinon, Cabernet Franc ($19.99)

Don’t let the price tag fool you, this is no wallflower. The most affordable of the trio, yet it punches well above its weight. The delightful aromatics really get things started with this wine. On the palate, juicy red fruits (think cherries and currants), a soft herbal influence, and a supple mid-palate texture lead into a savoury finish that makes it effortlessly enjoyable. It’s the kind of wine that doesn’t demand attention but earns it with quiet confidence, just like its name suggests. I am definitely a fan!

2022 Yannick Amirault Bourgueil Cote 50 Cabernet Franc ($39.99)

This Loire Valley Cabernet Franc seemed to tell me what I should expect from it, right from the aromas it sent from the glass, and it got it right! Fresh and delicious red, black, and brambly fruits shine with an earthy character speaks of the region. It’s delightfully creamy across the palate with a slight herbal note and a touch of oak playing a measured part. For me, this particular wine seemed more gentile and conversational while maintaining its varietal presence and, to me, this is a good thing. Just my thoughts but the winemaker has ‘listened’ and the fruit has done its job.

2021 Arnaud Lambert Saint Cyr En Bourg Les Terres Rouge ($44.99)

I tried this one last out of the three and it proved to be quite a treat (taking nothing away from the other two). Delightfully perfumed with fresh red currants, red liquorice, a hint of blackberry, a little earthiness and spice just to top it off. The palate is fruit-full, medium bodied and generous. It’s bright, juicy and fresh with those red fruits showing through with a nice plummy feel on the mid palate with no oak influence. Winemaker, Arnaud Lambert has hit the nail on the head with this Cabernet Franc. Winner!

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Nautilus Cuvée Marlborough Brut NV

Posted on August 23, 2025 by Tony Peters

There’s something quite celebratory about opening a bottle of sparkling wine, don’t you think? It’s not just that ‘POP’ of the cork (not that I mind crown seal on some sparkling wines) or the dance of the bubbles forming the mousse that sits so eloquently at the top of the wine as it’s poured into the glass. It’s the promise of something quite refined, refreshingly delicious, and just a little bit indulgent. This Brut NV from Nautilus, a long-standing favourite in New Zealand since 1989, delivers all of that and more. Made in the traditional method, this Pinot Noir dominant blend (75% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay) is aged on its lees for three years, allowing time to weave complexity into its character.

Nautilus Estate Website

Region: Malborough, N.Z.    Price: $40     Source: Sample thanks kindly to Hill- Smith Family Estates

Pouring this Cuvée created a fine bead of tiny bubbles that sat atop of what landed in the glass, all of which released their own aromas of something like apple crumble with a squeeze of lemon. The palate gives a lot of complexity, richness, freshness and excitement alongside an elegant and delicate textural mouthfeel as it finishes with some lovely acidity. It seems to be the ‘complete package,’ never feeling heavy or overworked, and I mean that as a compliment. Bright, flavourful, characterful, inviting and nicely priced too. I can only see its popularity growing here in Australia, whether it’s a celebration or a quiet moment of indulgence. Go on, you deserve it.

Posted in Sparkling Wine | Leave a comment

Earthworks New Releases and Grocery Giveaway Promotion

Posted on August 21, 2025 by Tony Peters

Earthworks Wines is a family-owned collection proudly connected to Angaston, South Australia. Partnering with local growers, they source premium fruit that captures the true spirit of the region. Their wines are crafted with care, focusing on the land they come from and the families who tend it. Through deep community collaboration, Earthworks celebrates authenticity, tradition, and value.

To thank the wine lovers who have supported them, Earthworks has launched a promotion that could land you a year’s worth of groceries valued at $12,000. Surely that must have grabbed your attention and provides a reason to raise a glass of their wines.

Sam Wigan, Head of Winemaking, says: “Earthworks is a network of families who work in regional communities, and we understand what matters. This promotion is a way of giving back to the people who support Earthworks by helping to fill their fridges, just as they’ve filled their glasses with our wine.” As Sam Wigan suggests, this is about giving back and frankly, their wines are more than just good, they’re part of something truly special.

Earthworks Wines

Region: Various, S.A.     Price: $20 each     Source: Sample thanks kindly to Hill- Smith Family Estates 

2025 Earthworks Riesling

Everything you would want in a value packed Riesling. It is invitingly fresh, varietally appealing and quite delicious. Aromas of lemons and limes with a delicate floral note there too. The palate offers up plenty for the price. It’s all about the citrussy characters providing a good flavour hit here too with good acidity and a pretty impressive finish.

2025 Earthworks Rosé

Aromas of freshly ripe strawberries are the star here but, I must add, it’s not that basic. The palate exudes freshness and vibrancy with a bright red fruit profile, there’s a surprising richness, yet is nicely balanced with some refreshing acidity and a nice flavourful finish. A very neat Rosé package. Another Rosé that may well earn constant residency in our drinks fridge.

2024 Earthworks Tempranillo

I wish you could see the colour. For an early drinking red, the colour is so bold and deep! Aromas? Plenty of blue fruits give you a lovely introduction. The flavours on the palate are juicy, plush and delightfully medium-bodied. Red fruits with a dark berry influence, hints of dark chocolate, a touch of oak, ‘just-enough’ savoury characters and fine tannins. A really good example at this price point. Yes!

2023 Earthworks Barossa Shiraz

Another in this lineup of Earthworks wines that hits the mark. Aromas of plum, dark berries, and a touch of spice lead the way. This medium-bodied Shiraz bursts with juicy red fruits, while black fruits add some good depth. There’s a freshness and vibrancy on the generous palate with soft tannins and a little oak adding a nice touch to the smooth finish. This is more of a charming and approachable Barossa Shiraz as opposed to a heavy hitting example from the region and is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

2023 Earthworks Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon

This wine hits the Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon brief perfectly in a fruit-forward, varietally expressive and ready to drink style. Black and blue fruit aromas sing in tune along with a subtle herbal note. The palate is juicy and dark fruity with a plumminess sitting in the (usually missing) mid-palate and complementary herbal characters. There’s a smooth textural feel to this wine across the palate too that sits nicely with the delicate tannins as it tails off quietly. This is good!

Posted in Cabernet Sauvignon, Other Reds, Riesling, Rosé, Shiraz | Leave a comment

2019 Levantine Hill Katherine’s Paddock Chardonnay

Posted on August 16, 2025 by Tony Peters

We have had the pleasure of visiting Levantine Hill on a few occasions now, whether it be for an informative wine tasting or a decadent yet relaxing lunch. Every time, regardless of the weather, no matter where we sat, we had a lovely view across the green lawns and vineyards, and the picturesque Yarra Valley.

As quoted by Jane Austen, “To sit in the shade on a fine day and look upon verdure is the most perfect refreshment.” Just reading that quote potrays a sense of relaxation in my mind. I would go as far to add to this Jane Austen quote, “To sit in the shade on a fine day and look upon verdure, with a glass of 2019 Levantine Hill Katherine’s Paddock Chardonnay in hand, is the most perfect refreshment.”

Levantine Hill Website

Region: Yarra Valley, Vic     Price: $125     Source: Retail Purchase

This is quite intense on the nose even to the point of saying complexity is not just something you taste in a wine. You can experience it in your olfactory senses. Aromatically, everything is delightfully ripe yet not overtly so, like a big hello from a friend rather than a capital letter text message that demands your attention. The flavours fill out the palate in such a profound way. Though medium to full-bodied for a Chardonnay, it delivers richness, elegance, and balance into every facet of its characteristics. Think stone fruits wrapped in a silken texture, obvious oak but is complementary, white chocolate like creaminess (if that’s a thing). The acidity sits neatly in the background as it finishes so amazingly long. Yes, it speaks luxury but has an approachability factor that speaks louder.

Posted in Chardonnay | Leave a comment