Reliable rosé
Angove Nine Vines 2016 Grenache Shiraz Rosé
Dry rosé wine styles have been the sensation of the summer, selling in unprecedented numbers. Although the mercury is now falling, there is still a place for pink wines such as this one, which pair brilliantly with Middle Eastern dishes and Portuguese chicken. This label was well ahead of the curve – Angove was producing excellent flavoursome rosés long before they became fashionable. This is great value, too, with an RRP of $16.
Equine standout
Rymill 2015 The Dark Horse Cabernet Sauvignon
This is a new and very impressive addition to the Rymill Dark Horse range, which commemorates a rogue police horse, Adlai, that was converted into an eventer by family member Judy Rymill and went on to compete at the Olympics. This is a very good “drink now” Coonawarra cabernet, flavoursome and well constructed with dark berry fruit taking the lead from soft oak and subtle tannins. $23.
Vibrant blend
Harewood Estate 2016 Sauvignon Blanc Semillon
There are plenty of blends of sauvignon blanc and semillon coming out of Western Australia but this one really shines. The fruit was grown in cool-climate vineyards situated in the Denmark, Porongurup and Mount Barker sub-regions of the Great Southern region in Western Australia, and comprises 63% sauvignon blanc and 37% semillon. This is fresh and vibrant with intense aromas and zippy acidity on the palate. $21.
