Wine with Winsor – 233

.

.Italian accent

Brown Brothers 18 Eighty Nine 2013 Pinot Grigio

There are a number of Italian families in the high country of north-east Victoria growing grape varieties from their homeland and Brown Brothers have sourced some excellent fruit from them for this stylish pinot grigio, which has fresh pear and peach aromas and some bright fruit characters with breezy acidity on the finish.

A delightful easy-drinking style best enjoyed chilled while still in the full blossom of youth. $18.

 

---

 

Seriously drinkable

Byrne Vineyards 2012 Sangiovese

This is a real boutique offering; made in tiny quantities (all bottles are individually numbered) from mature vineyards in the Clare Valley in South Australia.

While so many reds are about power and concentrated oak, this little beauty is all about structure and savouriness.

With dark fruit combined with stylish earthiness, this is a perfect companion for pasta with a game ragu, or maybe with some chicken or veal dishes.

Hard to find, but worth tracking down at www.byrnevineyards.com.au.  $38

 

---

 

Bargain buy

Hoddles Creek 2013 Sauvignon Blanc

There is no argument that the Hoddles Creek range of wines from the Upper Yarra Valley offer some of the best value to be found among Australian wine producers today.

The 2013 whites are a case in point with the chardonnay and the pinot gris also outstanding. I liked this a lot, though, for its vibrancy and freshness.

With high quality fruit this is unashamedly Australian in style; made for immediate enjoyment and a perfect after-work tipple. $20.