Back in the early 1970s, this was the wine that established Wolf Blass as a driving force in Australian winemaking. It’s a blend of 70% Cabernet, 22% Shiraz and just a touch of Malbec from a variety of regions in Australia. It is spectacular. The nose shows ripe plums, currants and mature blackberry fruits to go with layers of spice and meaty-earthy notes. It shows depth of flavour in the mouth with wonderful fruit, plush tannins, liquorice, oak and layers of spice. You can cellar for 10 or more years as it matures gracefully. Try with grilled lamb loin or a simple BBQ steak.
Another sensational Aussie classic made from 100% Cabernet fruit from Coonawarra. Cassis and crushed currants explode on the nose with toasted oak spice and minerals chiming in. The dark fruits are lush on the palate and joined by a range of spice and oak notes that come at you in layer after layer. A voluptuous and fleshy wine with gritty tannins that will age for a decade or more.
The popular Yellow Tail brand has taken it up a notch with the reserve wines that offer up some pretty decent value. This Chard shows a peachy-vanilla nose with soft apple and spice notes. In the mouth it’s creamy with peaches, butterscotch, spice and a citrus note on the finish. Pair with poached salmon or lobster slathered in butter.
Lovely vermilion/tangerine hue with lots of fine bubbles. Try this in a regular wine glass, the better to enjoy the floral and apple bouquet. Luscious strawberry and papaya flavours are kept honest by zingy acidity. The surprisingly long finish hints of lemon zest.
Lively fresh citrus and tropical fruit flavours come packaged with refreshingly lively acidity and moderate alcohol. Reliable, unpretentious value.
The perfect summer sipper. The bouquet of orange blossom and honey suggests sweetness but the wine has a grapey, cidery flavour that finishes freshly in the mouth. Chill it well and serve it as an aperitif wine.
The 2008 vintage in Australia was a great one. This example is engaged with a deep nose of blackberries, liquorice, vanilla, plums and cocoa powder. The palate adds nuances of raspberries and spice. It is ripe, but not heavy, as there is freshness on the lengthy finale.