Winter Warmer
Penny’s Hill 2016 Cracking Black Shiraz
The dark soils of McLaren Vale help give the region’s reds their traditional power and presence and have been harnessed here by winemaker Alexia
Roberts, who has gone for richness and generous fruit flavours in this wine that is named in honour of the infertile black vineyard land which cracks apart in the warmth. This is a big wine with plenty of regional black cherry, blackberry and dark chocolate notes along with integrated oak and plenty of length. One for sipping in front of the fire on a cold winter night. $25.
Ripper Riesling
Silkwood Estate 2017 The Walcott Riesling
The vineyard ducks and guinea fowls are the hardest workers in the Silkwood vineyard in Pemberton, Western Australia. They keep the pests under control and reduce the need for pesticides. Silkwood is a new entry into the Sydney market, distributed by Single Vineyard Sellers, and winemaker Chris Murtha is right on target with this outstanding young riesling, which has floral aromatics, crisp citrus and mineral freshness on the palate. A great match for fresh oysters or simple grilled fish dishes. $30.
Bargain Buy
DCB Wine 2017 Pinot Noir
This is one of the best-value pinots to be found in Sydney this winter, it is made by Chris Bendle, whose full-time job is at Hoddles Creek. Minimalist winemaking is Bendle’s credo – he wants his wines to reflect the cool-climate Yarra Valley and be
“elegant, affordable and reward the pleasure of drinking”. This has 20% whole-bunch fruit, was foot-stomped and underwent malo fermentation. It saw mainly old oak and was bottled without fining or filtering. The end result is a downright delicious drink. $23.