Pinot pleasure
Clyde Park 2019 Estate Pinot Noir
The Bellarine Peninsula outside Geelong in Victoria produces some of the best pinots in Australia – but smaller producers sometimes fly a little under the radar. This new release from reliably excellent Clyde Park at Bannockburn is worth seeking out. The vines were planted over 40 years ago and it expresses varietal character and plenty of intense briary flavours without breaking the bank. Supple, Burgundy-inspired, and delicious! Take to a BYO Chinese to pair with duck dishes. $45.
Serious value
Pitchfork 2020 Semillon Sauvignon Blanc
Sometimes you just want a white wine that is zippy, lively, crisp, and youthful. This fits the bill perfectly. It is uncomplicated but refreshing, with grassy aromas, citrus and tropical fruit flavours, and very crisp acid on the finish. Made from Margaret River grapes, this comes in an eco-friendly lightweight glass bottle, so you can help save the planet while getting buzzed. A perfect partner for fish and chips. $17.
Sophisticated shiraz
Zema Estate 2016 Shiraz
The Zema family make an impressive range of red wines from Coonawarra, only releasing them when they believe they are at their peak. This shiraz has just been released at four years of age and offers a whole lot of quality bang for your buck. Medium-bodied with ripe red and black fruit notes and dark chocolate hints, this finishes soft and smooth and is drinking beautifully right now. Pair with a hearty winter casserole. $27.
The real thing
Nicolas Feuillatte Selection Brut
Nicolas Feuillatte is one of the newer brands of Champagne on the market, but its quality and realistic price has seen it take a slice of market share. This is a lovely drink for under $50 – with everything beautifully in place and no rough edges. The fresh, zesty fruit shines as does the elegance and real sense of lightness of being. A lovely aperitif style that is distributed by Vintage House. $49.
Hunter star
Thomas Wines 2018 The Cote Shiraz
Andrew Thomas makes no fewer than nine single-vineyard Hunter Valley shirazes from different sites, all of them reflecting both their terroir and Thommo’s meticulous attention to detail. When it comes to price-quality ratio, this one is hard to beat. It just the second Thomas release from the Cote d’Or vineyard in central Pokolbin, which dates back to 1866. Made from dry-grown fruit, this was a huge hit with my tasting group. Think blue fruits, while the savoury texture on the palate is aided and abetted by attractive dusty tannins and quality oak. Brilliant stuff. $35.
Tassie standout
Pipers Brook 2019 Sauvignon Blanc
The Apple Isle is best known for sparkling wines, chardonnays, and pinots, but it also produces some excellent high-acid white wines that are full of personality. This is a case in point with brisk citrus and ripe green melon fruit flavours, and a crisp finish. As refreshing as drinking from a mountain stream. Pair this with grilled seafood, or barbecued prawn. $29.
See Winsor’s work at www.gourmetontheroad.blogspot.com