A flagship for the original estate, Bacchus was the stalwart variety which kickstarted the winery. From vines now 35 years old, lifted orchard fruits and tropical notes. Vibrant aromas of orchard fruit before juicy layers of citrus and spice through the off-dry close. Excellent value.
Clear, deep garnet with a pinkish rim. Fairly robust nose of raspberry, blackberry and blueberry, also sweet almond and a definite tinge of maple syrup. Medium-bodied, with simple, juicy red-berry flavours. Tannins still noticeable, but this is drinking best now.
From the Fukyoka Prefecture on the island of Kyushu on Japan’s southwestern tip comes this elegant, sophisticated Junmai. Crafted from Yamadanishiki rice polished to 60 per cent, it offers up aromas of Asian pear, mineral, pumpkin, nougat, and apple. Medium-dry, with a round, silky mouth feel and flavours suggesting candied almond and pear.
A new Pinot Noir from Tawse! Even though it comes from young vines, there is nothing but class and elegance in the glass. Cranberry, red cherry, raspberry, wildflowers, herbs, vanilla and spice are built on a svelte body and dusty tannins. Superb length, and it should be drunk over the next 3–4 years. As the vines mature, quality will only get better, and personally I can’t wait.
Partially affected by noble rot, this is Chenin what with its honey, wax, mushroom, chamomile, apricot and bruised apple. Rich, off-dry and long-lasting, with some warmth on the finale. Pair with a torchon of foie gras or red curry dishes.
This wicked blend of Pinot Blanc (80%) and Pinot Noir (20%) washes away the memories of all those candy-floss rosés in just one sip. There’s a deliberate nod to Provence here, with a pale salmon hue and lusciously refreshing strawberry notes that hover over a pleasing nice mineral streak with a crisp, clean finish.
Smoky mineral, herbs, grapefruit, lemon, white peach, green apple and white flowers are all present in the delicate blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Vilana. Refreshing with great length and a structure which makes for a perfect pairing with shellfish or mild cheeses.