Wines that are well balanced and food friendly are always popular. Wine writer Winsor Dobbin selects some of his favourite current releases.
Juicy red
Turkey Flat 2023 Evolution Grenache
If you like your reds fresh, fruity, and juicy then this youthful grenache from the Barossa Valley certainly delivers. Made in what Spanish speakers call the joven, or youthful, style, this is bursting with youthful energy and is designed with immediate enjoyment in mind. Think fresh berry and plum flavours with some spice on the palate. This is made from 100-year-old vines with some whole-bunch elements adding some crunchy interest. Unfined and unfiltered for maximum fruit impact. A terrific barbecue choice. $30.
Summer fun
Longview 2023 The Whippet Sauvignon Blanc
The Adelaide Hills region is producing some of Australia’s best examples of sauvignon blanc, a grape variety that is regaining popularity and is perfect for refreshing enjoyment on warm summer days. From a family-owned and -operated estate outside the tiny town of Macclesfield, it strikes just the right balance between tropical fruit flavours and hints of varietal herbaceousness. A wine for enjoying well chilled over the next couple of months, paired with either fish dishes or a simple beach picnic. $23.
Pinot Pleasure
Colmar Estate 2022 Block One Pinot Noir
Colmar Estate, named after a lovely town in the French winemaking region of Alsace, is a rising star in the cool-climate wine region of Orange in the west of New South Wales. From what was an outstanding vintage in the area comes a delightfully nuanced pinot noir that merits being enjoyed on a special occasion, and with some Chinese roast duck if you can find some. There is lots of complexity on the palate, with French oak playing a support role, but this is seamless and deliciously varietal. $65.
Rustic rosé
Oliver’s Taranga 2023 Chica Rosé
Here is a new wave rosé wine that reflects the future direction of many Australian wines. It is a blend of 55% McLaren Vale staple shiraz with the Spanish grape mencia (45%), which appears to have a great future in warmer regions of South Australia. This is a rustic-accented style perfect for enjoying well chilled over the final days of summer. Extra dry, extra refreshing and extra fun. You’ll love the purity and strawberry and spice flavours of this one and may find it hard to stop at just one glass. $28.
Superb value
Wickhams Road 2023 Yarra Valley Chardonnay
This must be one of the best buys in your local bottle shop right now. Pleasurably pure and defined Yarra Valley chardonnay from the d’Anna family, who also own Hoddles Creek Estate. Made from grower fruit, it is a classic of its style. Sadly, production is down due to vine disease and lack of replanting, so this might be the last release. If you enjoy stylish chardonnay with a touch of swagger, then snap some up while you still can. $20.
Iberian accent
De Bortoli 2022 Ancient Soils
Grape varieties from southern Europe are growing in popularity in Australia as global warming changes the face of winemaking. This blend of the Spanish grape tempranillo and Portuguese grape touriga is made from fruit grown in Heathcote by the next generation de Bortoli winemakers. The fruit is grown on deep red, rich mineral soils and comes with intensity, drive, and food-friendly appeal. This would match well with anything from a chorizo-studded paella to roasted meat dishes. $30.
See more of Winsor’s wine reviews at www.gourmetontheroad.com
