Crisp surprise
Wirra Wirra 2016 The Lost Watch Riesling
Wirra Wirra is a standout McLaren Vale winery that is probably best known for its quality red wines.
It spreads its wings and sources fruit from the cooler Adelaide Hills for this excellent hand-picked riesling from the cooler Adelaide Hills.
This is a little softer with more mouth feel than its Clare Valley and Eden Valley counterparts but shares the same crisp lemon and lime freshness. Delightful drinking while young. $24.
Spanish style
Earthworks 2015 Tempranillo
Tempranillo is the Spanish grape that leads the way in the great reds of Rioja, but it is also very much at home in the warmth of the Barossa Valley, where it is becoming increasingly popular.
This is a big, assertive prop forward of a wine with its bright red and black fruit characters aided and abetted by the naturally savoury notes of the fruit.
This would be perfect with a roast leg of lamb, or perhaps matched with a beef casserole. $20.
Classy chardy
Oakridge 2015 Lusatia Park Vineyard Chardonnay
Oakridge winemaker David Bicknell is the man with the Midas touch – and where he goes stylistically other winemakers follow.
This is a classic modern Yarra Valley chardonnay from one of the region’s most renowned vineyards. It is part of the LVS (Local Vineyard Series) range of wines that reflect the sense of place of where they were grown.
This is intense, stylish and textured while still lean and minerally. Lovely stuff. $38.
