Whether you want to splurge on a special bottle or snap up something a little different, writer Winsor Dobbin has some adventurous suggestions for you to try.
Italian treat
Pizzini 2024 Fiano
Fiano is a white grape variety that emanates from southern Italy and Sicily and is known for having bright, refreshing acidity. It is becoming increasingly popular in Australia and is extremely food friendly. This one comes from the Pizzini family, who have planted several Italian varieties in their vineyard in the King Valley in north-east Victoria, which used to be tobacco growing country. This is a lovely wine for summer and can be paired with anything from paella to a picnic. $26.
Old favourite
Peter Lehmann 2018 Stonewell Shiraz
Peter Lehmann was a legendary figure in the Barossa, a larger-than-life character who was much loved. His brand lives on under new ownership and this excellent shiraz – released at six years of age – is of exemplary quality. This new release, is, as always destined to be long lived but is ready to enjoy right now should you wish. Think depth and power, dark plummy flavours but also impressive balance. This is dark and handsome with the fruit drawn from low-yielding vineyards that usually produce tiny, flavoursome grapes. Enjoy with a beef stew. $100.
French bargain
Nuiton-Beaunoy
2021 Bourgogne Hautes Cotes de Beaune
The price of Burgundy imports has gone through the roof in recent years, but this impressive offering is still relatively affordable. Imported by Single Vineyard Sellers, it has varietal pinot characteristics along with some French style and swagger. There is fruit generosity here, along with a gentle finish. Think berry aromas and flavours and hints of toasted nuts. Great with duck or veal, or perhaps eggplant dishes. $55.
Reliable savvy
Shaw + Smith 2024 Sauvignon Blanc
This remains the benchmark for Australian sauvignon blanc three and half decades after it was first released – a time very few drinkers had any idea what sauvignon blanc was. It is the quintessential spring/summer wine, perfect for enjoying chilled with a seafood platter. The new vintage release maintains a formidable record of consistency and once again offers bright, tangy fruit flavours and bright acid on the finish. A delicious cool-climate wine from the Adelaide Hills. $32.
Something different
Mayfield Vineyard 2023 Jonty Met Otto Cabernet Franc
Cabernet franc is usually used as a component of Bordeaux-style blends, but can shine on its own, as proved by this delightful medium-bodied release from a wine producer in Orange, Central West NSW, which is really hitting its straps with recent releases. This is a medium-bodied red that sings – and the wine is named for viticulturist Charles Simons’ young family. The fruit is the star here with older oak playing a support role. Well worth a try. $37.
Bright white
Kooyong 2022 Faultline Chardonnay
Kooyong and its sister Mornington Peninsula label Port Phillip Estate are always labels to watch out for when it comes to cool-climate chardonnay and pinot noir. This single vineyard chardonnay is among my favourites year after year: pristine and shiny with lively citrus allied to nectarine and nutty hints. If you like chardonnays with bright acid, length, and style then you will love this super stylish number. Match with roast pork and crackling. $75.
See more of Winsor’s wine reviews at www.gourmetontheroad.com.
