Four young Australian wines that offer excellent value for money
Affordable pinot
Hoddles Creek 2018 Pinot Noir
Pinot noir is arguably the most difficult grape to grow and prices often reflect that, with the finest examples fetching stratospheric prices. The d’Anna family in the cool upper reaches of the Yarra Valley have the knack of producing pinots with excellent varietal character at very reasonable prices – this new release being a case in point. It is perfumed with excellent tannin structure and balance. Highly recommended. $24.
Terrific quaffer
Wirra Wirra 2018 Scrubby Rise Sauvignon Blanc
Scrubby Rise is the entry-level label for standout McLaren Vale winery Wirra Wirra. The vines in the vineyard are now well over 40 years old and produce sauvignon blanc with plenty of vibrancy and kick for easy, everyday drinking. There’s an inviting tropical fruit bouquet that leads on to fresh, zingy palate with some bright acid on the finish. The winemaking team recommends pairing this with an avocado and prawn salad. $17.
Serious blend
Yangarra 2018 Noir
The wines from Yangarra are certified organic and biodynamic and are invariably deliciously quaffable. This is an unusual blend of no fewer than six different grape varieties that thrive in warmer regions like McLaren Vale; grenache, mourvedre, shiraz, cinsaut, carignan and
counoise. The vibe here is decidedly Rhoney with open fermenting, plunging, wild yeast fermentation and 10 months on lees in older French oak playing key roles in a wine with serious savoury appeal. $25.
Chardonnay star
Alkoomi 2018 White Label Chardonnay
Alkoomi is the Aboriginal name for “a place we choose”.
From the Frankland River region in southern West Australia, this has to be one of the best-value chardonnays in the country. It made in a fruit-driven, thoroughly modern style bursting with vibrant stone fruit and citrus flavours. It is a very food-friendly wine, which would match with seafood, pork or poultry dishes. Serve slightly chilled. Remarkably good drinking for $18.
Winsor Dobbin – www.gourmetontheroad.blogspot.com.