Words from a Wine Glass

Some people may think it weird that sometimes, and probably more often than not, when I’ve finished a big day in the garden, or like on this occasion, completed some demolition work, I make a b-line for a white wine.  Not beer or water (god forbid) but a cool, tasty white wine and this one fitted the bill perfectly.

Quite aromatic thanks to it’s youth but it was in the drinking that it proved it’s worth.  The freshness and juiciness was a welcome relief, and the lively flavours of citrus fruits, almonds and a little hint of spice provided an ideal epilogue.

A hard earned thirst needs a nice cold wine.  And the best cold wine is Vermentino.  Yelland & Papps Vermentino.

yellandandpapps.com

Region: Barossa Valley     Price: $25     Source: Sample

Up front, I’m going to admit the name, Pinot Blanc, did not excite me.  I’m guessing for the everyday punter it would be the same.  Engage the ‘reconsider’ section of your brain…please, because the label is an excellent source of information about the variety.

If there is one bit of advice I can give, don’t serve it too cold.  There’s always that one person who says “Why?” so, the answer is, because it killed everything this wine had to offer.

On the nose it presented like another white wine that starts with the word ‘Pinot’.  Apples, pears (and floral) aromas which then appeared again on the palate with a touch of stone fruit to finish it off very nicely if a tad short.  As strange as it sounds, this wine actually opened up even better the longer it was in the glass.  The down side, it didn’t stay in the glass long enough very often.

I have to also admit, it was an easy wine to like…in a good way.  One that you can open, pour, sit back, relax and enjoy on a sunny afternoon over lunch…with cheese or with salt & pepper & chilli squid or simply on its own.  Don’t be shy, tuck in!

yellandandpapps.com

Region: Barossa Valley     Price: $25     Source: Sample

Let’s kick off this tasting note with a confession.  I like Pinot Gris.  I have to add though, it has to be quality Pinot Gris.  This isn’t just quality, it’s classy and definitely one I like.

I’ll give you a little heads up.  There is not a hair out of place with this gem.

It looks clean, pristine and dressed to impress.  Pears kick it off on the nose then peaches coupled with pear skins bring it down softly onto the palate where it makes it presence felt. Rich, textural with a lovely mouth feel, it finishes a touch dry but is as smooth as silk and has impressive length to it too. This is also a terrific food wine.

Summer is just around the corner.  Find it, buy it, serve it up.  Your friends will love you for it.  At only $22, how could you not!!

irvinewines.com.au

Region:  Eden Valley     Price:$22     Source:  Sample

There are pinot gris’ and then there is Grey Sands Pinot Gris.

I can’t remember where I heard it but, I was told Pinot Gris is the red drinkers white.  The reason for this was because of the richness, mouthfeel and alcohol level of the wine.  This fits the bill but without that alcohol level.

What I would also like to point out is, I served this, with a couple of other wines, to a couple of mates of mine who, to say the least, know their wine, but didn’t tell them anything about any of the wines.  Their response, “that is quality wine”, “my pick of the wines this afternoon.”  When I revealed the wine, they were not surprised.  Honestly.

My opinion only of course but don’t expect the usual ‘pear’ characteristics with this Gris. They’ve been left on the bench.  It’s very aromatic but softly so.  This may not make sense but you’ll understand when you smell it.  The palate is where it wants to tell you it’s all quality with some humility but it shouldn’t be so.  It should shout about it’s star quality. Full bodied but unobtrusive, rich flavours but so approachable and balanced.  Another great Pinot Gris from Bob & Rita.

greysands.com.au/vineyard/product/pinot-gris-2014

Region: Glengarry, Tasmania    Price: $45     Source: Sample