Capital success
Helm 2016 Classic Dry Riesling
Ken Helm has been making riesling at Murrumbateman, outside Canberra, for 40 years now and has the success formula down pat.
He was particularly happy with this year’s vintage describing it as being equal to the great riesling vintages of the century in the Canberra region.
This is certainly an outstanding example of fresh, crisp and dry Australian riesling.
Think green apple alongside lemon and lime notes. $38.
Bargain red
Chapel Hill 2015 The Parson Shiraz
Chapel Hill is a medium-sized winery in McLaren Vale that produces a wide range of wines that invariably offer good-value drinking.
This new release is an entry level red that certainly offers lots of bang for your buck.
If you like your reds with a bit of oomph then this will be right up your street with dark fruit notes, a good dollop of oak and more structure than you would expect from a sub-$20 red.
Perfect with barbecues or gourmet sausages. $18.
Party selection
Shaw Vineyard 2015 Semillon Sauvignon Blanc
I was all set to write about the Shaw Vineyard 2013 Merlot when I tasted this wine and decided I liked it even more – particularly given the bargain-basement price.
This is an aromatic and lip-smackingly good white blend with tropical fruit flavours and citrus notes jostling for supremacy on the palate.
It is crisp and vibrant with bright acid and is an excellent choice for a party white, or for enjoying with spicy dishes like Portuguese chicken. $16.
Winsor Dobbin, www.gourmetontheroad.blogspot.com.
