SWTD August 2022
This Chianti is a blend of 90% Sangiovese, 5% Ciliegiolo and 5% Canaiolo. The terrains in the zone in which these grapes were sourced, are just as diverse as the altitudes and various types of soil characteristics of the Chianti zone, but bear no relation to the communal boundaries. However, it can be said that clay is the major component as well as fragmented rock in the form of stones. A selection of the best these grapes were co-fermented under controlled temperature and followed by a long maceration. Deep, ruby red with an intense and persistent fragrance of mature red fruit. Identifiable as uniquely from the soil of Tuscany, it's a well structured, smooth wine with soft tannins and distinct notes of red fruit.
“Drink early version.”
Normally, I would have used this wine before the Riserva, this wine's sibling in the previous Dozen. Both, among others I saw at an impromptu tasting Nicholas Gibson had back in February. These Chianti wines were easily considered for inclusion with the Riserva being able to be squeezed in, in May. Since then, there has been a few 'ongoing' favourable comments about how more medium bodied wines are being enjoyed. Interesting really, and while I will still enjoy a fuller Barossa type (not too full) style occasionally, or if there's nothing else, I agree. So, out of the bottom drawer, the 'other.'
Available to Retail.
Web: www.tenutepiccini.it
Sydney Distributor: Single Vineyards
Phone: 02 9460 3177.
100% Pinot Gris grapes were mechanically harvested and then received a 'semi- carbonic' maceration followed by traditional vinification and ageing in tanks. Beautiful gray (very pale straw) colour with a highest brilliance. Delicious aromas of exotic fruits (banana) and wildflowers. The palate is ample and generous, with again, the exotic fruits and citrus (lemon) notes. A very good length in the mouth, yet with a beautiful sense of tension. Light and pleasant hazelnuts hints on the finish with a smooth, rich after taste. A very elegant wine of great finesse.
“This pleasant wine is ready to drink in the first few years after release.”
“'Vins de France' can be produced throughout the whole of France using grapes harvested exclusively within its borders. Not commonly grown in France, Pinot Gris corresponds to the grey mutation of the Pinot Noir. In accordance with our tradition and values of elegance and quality, the Pinot Gris grapes for this wine were selected from specific vineyards in the South of France, more specifically in the Languedoc area, in the Aude department.” “The history of Bouchard Aine & Fils is a long voyage through time, closely linked to Burgundy and especially the town of Beaune, and going back to 1750.” This is a recommendation from Jacki Osborne and I was easily convinced as I had early memories of this mob. H.G. Brown and Sons used to be early Importers of theirs, and I remember the most expensive wine in the first Bottlo I worked was their Pouilly Fuisse 1971. And it sold in 1973 for $6.76 a bottle, close to twice that of Grange. Funny thing memory.
Available to Retail.
Web: www.pulentaestate.com
Sydney Distributor: Young & Rashleigh
Phone: 02 9967 5900
The Touriga Nacional fruit was sourced, as usual, from Joch's vineyard in the Willunga foothills in the south of the McLaren Vale – 130 m above sea level, on deep alluvial stony clay loam. The fruit was crushed, destemmed and fermented at temperatures ranging from 20 to 25°C for 10 days on skins, with regular pumping over and 'drain and returns’ to assist extraction of colour, flavour and tannin from the grapes. Post fermentation draining and pressing, the wine was transferred to 25% new French oak barriques, and the balance to older (3 and 4 year old) barriques for Malolactic Fermentation. Colour is vibrant red. On the nose, lifted red and blue fruits with a hint of Earl Grey. To the palate, blue fruit flavours, with an Indian ink mid palate and an Earl Grey finish.
“A classic Portuguese variety showing a fast, lively red, 'vinho do vale,' is made for immediate enjoyment. We hope it kicks a goal for you.”
“Below average rainfall over winter followed by a very dry spring; with high winds and cold nights in November disrupting flowering; and hot, dry conditions in December and early January reducing bunch and berry size, resulted in yields at least 50% below the 10 year average. Thankfully a cooler February and March led to slower ripening despite the low yields. Tricky picking decisions followed. Added to this, bushfires, global pandemic all presented a roller-coaster ride! And a vintage we are proud of. Hands in the air!” This is another, with more to come from John at First Drop Wines. An amazing portfolio of production from a creative and confident maker. It was a very enlightening and enjoyable April tasting.
Available to Retail.
Open: Wednesday to Saturday 10.00 to 4.00.
Address: 30 – 38 Barossa Valley, Nuriootpa. S.A., 5355.
Web: www.firstdropwines.com
Phone: 0488 299 233
Garnet red in colour, the nose shows a buoyant bouquet of raspberries, red cherries and cranberries, fresh tobacco leaf with dried oregano and clove in the background. The palate is medium weight and energetic with generous and juicy flavours over a lithe frame. The flavours reflect the red fruits of the nose with warm spices (cinnamon bark and star anise) in support. Acidity plays an equal role to the (mild mannered) tannins to enliven the finish.
“Peak Drinking 2022 to 2027.”
From the Notes: “Sangiovese is the background variety of Tuscany where it dates back to Etruscan times – its name a corruption of 'blood of Jove.' Best known under the guise of Chianti, Australia's first Sangiovese was planted in Mudgee by the late Carlo Corino (Montrose) in the mid 1980s. The First Ridge vines were sourced from those original cuttings.” And: “The First Ridge vineyard and Cellar Door sit at 580m along the spine of exposed rocky ridges which overlook the bucolic Cudgegong River valley. Our 18 hectare vineyard dates back more than 20 years and was planted to farm premium grapes for a number of local wineries. In 2003 Helen and John Nicholas refocused their vineyard on traditional Italian varieties.”
Availability
Available to Retail.
Web: www.firstridge.com.au
Phone: 0418 161 132
Open: Daily 11 to 4.
Address: 577 Burrundulla Road, Mudgee, NSW, 2850.
2018 was a warmer vintage for our generally cool climate, maritime Denmark, a sub region of Western Australia. This allowed us to chase a richer more textured style of Chardonnay as opposed to the deliberately leaner, more citrus style: Burgundian rather than 'Chablisienne.' The free run juice was fermented in powerful French oak coopered in Burgundy fashion, introducing spicey, toasty complexity and rich creamy texture. Additionally, the wine was allowed to go through secondary malolactic fermentation further softening the wine and enhancing the savoury textures. Aromas of toasty oak and roasted cashews support rich nectarine fruit with hints of melon leading to a long grapefruit finish.
“This wine will improve with up to 10 years careful cellaring.”
“Each vintage our winemakers explore new varieties, vineyards, styles and techniques. Occasionally these trials and experiments yield results that deserve to see the 'light of day.' Some of the wines may never be produced again creating a selection of wines that will be forever in a state of 'flux.' Similarly, the label is also in a state of flux - each individually numbered bottle has its own unique image. A digital thumbprint is created for each wine using its unique data – tonnes harvested, date harvested, GPS location of the vineyard, chemical analysis, bottles produced etc. The wine's numerical identity is used to manipulate the label generating thousands of wine iterations or repetitions.”
Available to Retail.
Web: www.harewoodestate.com.au
The grapes were machine harvested in the cool of the night, cold settled before being racked into our oak cuvees for fermentation (1000L barrels imported from Germany) to add some complexity and accentuate that wet lanolin character of great Chenin. Always aiming for the classical off-dry style of the Loire Valley, this wine is lovingly crafted and heavily debated by the passionate pair every year. (My guess here is a generational father and daughter conference). Defined by flavours of Pear, Quince, Jasmine, Greengage plum and ginger, balanced by a deliciously zesty acidity on the palate and a rich mineral yet creamy texture. It is a true French expression of the great Chameleon of grapes, but it's made right here in NZ for your drinking pleasure.
Nothing Noted, but I would expect to hear, enjoy on release, but will develop with age.
For all the Chenin Blanc fans, this also from the Forrest Notes: “Chenin Blanc makes lithe, dry summer whites, textural and mineral sparkling wines, oak aged styles and even exclusive and complex dessert wines. Beth fell in love with Chenin Blanc when we sent her to the Loire Valley to discover the intricacies of Sauvignon Blanc. (I can feel the amusement). Returning with an excitement to show off the old vines John had lovingly planted in 1988 at our home block in Renwick. Two excited winemakers. And finishing with their delightful food matching suggestion: “A seaside picnic of Fish 'n' Chips.”
Available to Retail.
Web: www.forrestwines.co.nz
Phone: +64 3 572 9084 (Local)
Open: Daily 10.00 to 4.30 Closed on P/H.
Address: 19 Blicks Road, Blenheim, N.Z.
Grapes were hand harvested at optimum ripeness, then were destemmed and crushed to the press. The wine was fermented in stainless steel tanks using organic yeasts which carried out a long, cool ferment. The colour is bright yellow, and the nose shows apples and pears and apricot with a touch of honeysuckle. The palate is jasmine and honeysuckle with citrus characters of lemon and lime. The wine has a long minerally finish.
Drink now, fabulous, however it won’t fall over soon.
Just checking, and it’s been over 10 years since any Huia wines have been in the Dozens. Even considering a nominal two year Covid fogging up of time lines, it’s too long. A new Distributor. After seeing a very good write up recently, I had in mind the Holm Oak Riesling for August. It will certainly have its day. At the Tasting Claire was showing eight wines, including two Riesling wines. Every one of their wines I'd happily include. She had a fantastic Blanc de Blanc sparkling, which is pretty expensive and a little out of reach for here. It would take a strategic buying effort to fit it in. However, the Riesling works and there is her Chardonnay, among others to consider.
Available to Retail.
Web: www.huiavineyards.com
Crushed into a combination of open top and static fermenters for a gentle three day pre-fermentation cold soak. The wines were then inoculated with a cultured yeast and colour and tannin extracted from the skins by a combination of plunging and pumping over for a period of up to 10 days. Once optimum maturation was obtained the parcels were blended and prepared for bottling. The colour is deep purple with an aroma of red and black berries coupled with spice and hints of blue fruit. An intense palate of fresh fruits with a beautifully fine tannin structure. Classically medium bodied, exhibiting true Hunter regionality with its perfectly balanced acidity and impeccable length.
No mention in the Notes, but under screw cap, easily 10+ years.
“An excellent year in the Hunter Valley. Dry throughout the growing season, the vineyards burst early but a cool spring slowed the growth periods, meaning ripening was around two to three weeks later than usual. December saw warm weather with average rainfall allowing for healthy and clean canopies giving excellent ripening conditions. January and February saw significantly lower than average rainfall conditions which meant ripening was even and let the team have the ability to pick fruit at its optimum ripeness. The Hunter is a notoriously tricky grape growing region. And 2017 is highly regarded. As are the two that follow 2018 and 2019. And it will be an interesting exercise to compare Notes when they arrive. That is to say, I have plans to include them when they become available, probably over the next two years. 2020 saw bushfires. The reason is that it seems at this stage, Mount Pleasant is revisiting it's 'Glory Days.' Give it 3 hours to breathe.
Available to Retail.
Web: www.mountpleasantwines.com.au
Phone: 02 4998 7505
Open: Thursday to Monday 10 to 4
Address: 41 Marrowbone Road, Pokolbin, NSW, 2320.
100% Malbec from vines of two vineyards planted in 1981 and 1992 at 3900Ft and 3205Ft respectively, in Mendoza. Fruit was hand harvested in March and saw 12 to 24 hours pre-fermentation maceration at 5-8°C. Alcoholic fermentation was in a combination of stainless steel tanks and concrete 'pools.' Spontaneous Malo-lactic fermentation occurred in concrete pools and the wine was transferred to two and three year old barrels for up to six months. The wine has a deep violet red colour, with a aromas reminiscent of red fruits with slight floral tones, accompanied by delicate notes of vanilla and tobacco from the wood. On the palate it is round with good character and remarkable structure. And with pleasant tannins that give it great complexity and a memorable finish.
“Medium term of five to eight years.”
I remember at the time of the last Dozen when including Pulenta's 'Entry Level' Malbec, thinking it was very good value, and I should put this, the La Flora in now. They make four Malbec wines but after this point, they're quite expensive along with their Cabernet Franc. Another wine I'd love to get in, but both are around the $100 mark, far too much for here. Using that same number as a scale of quality though, James Suckling scored this wine at 92/100. I thought I'd repeat their philosophy: “Making great wine is an act of generosity, always considering the one who will taste it. Our mission is to produce limited series of great wine proudly made in Argentina.”
Available to Retail.
Web: www.pulentaestate.com
Sydney Distributor: Cuttings Wine Merchants via Young & Rashleigh
Phone: 02 9967 5900
This wine is a blend of Gamay and Pinot Noir Certified Organically Grown from blocks off our Balmoral Vineyard at 900m. Grapes were hand picked into slotted bins and taken directly to the winery. Whole bunches were place into open fermenters and wild fermentation started while the grapes were fully intact. After 15 days the carbonic maceration was finished, and the fruit was gently pressed into stainless steel tanks with lees stirring for four months to increase and improve mouth-feel. The wine was passed through a rock filter prior to bottling. The colour is 'cloudy' magenta. On the nose are dark fruit nuances of cherry and plums and a hint of raspberry. These dark fruits carry over onto the palate and are supported by a velvety mouth-feel.
“This wine is made to enjoy young and fresh, over the first few years from release.”
I'm not quite sure who Marge is, but she wears a cheery rather than conservative label. At the Bacchus Portfolio Tasting, I asked Justin about his 'Incubator Series.' His reply was that they're 'Natural Wines.' Fair enough I thought, and then I saw the Gamay component (In the Portfolio, it doesn't appear on the label), it then became interesting. Here, it is seasonally out of position as it is definitely a summer style. But, with continually, it seems, fending off funny coloured Rose wines being pushed at me, it appealed, as it did with the Stanton and Killeen so called Rose previously. Marge is attractive first up with brilliant colours and I'll leave further analogies alone. It's a warm day wine.
Available to Retail.
No Cellar Door.
Web: www.seesawwine.com
Wholesaler: Bacchus Wine Merchant
Phone: 1300 309773
100% Cabernet Sauvignon off Single Block vineyard, Barossa Valley. Destemmed and fermented to dryness. 12 days on skins and basket pressed to tank. Upon completion of Malo-lactic fermentation, the wine was transferred to French oak hogsheads for 24 months. Deep crimson red, the wine shows beautifully lifted aromatics of blackcurrant, spiced cherry and mint chocolate. The palate delivers weight and fruit generosity with savoury spice adding further depth and complexity. The wine's silky texture and chalky tannin gives the wine an age worthy framework. Generosity of primary fruit gives the wine immediate drinking appeal, while its complexity and depth in structure will reward those with patience.
“10 years plus.”
“The vineyard was planted in 1968 by 5th generation W.H. 'Bert' Scholz, over deep alluvial soil in a loop of the North Para River. It is shaded by eucalypts, with cool gully breezes that follow the river from the hills. The 2018 vintage produced outstanding quality fruit. The 2017/18 growing season yielded a warm, dry Spring, following the good rains of winter, setting up beautiful conditions for flowering and fruit set. These warm, dry conditions continued through January and February and were followed by a mild Indian Summer during March and early April.” …...: “The Willows has been our home since 1845, when JG Scholz first arrived in the Barossa Valley. Seven generations on, we continue to farm our unique parcel of land.”
Available to Retail.
Web: www.thewillowsvineyard.com.au
Phone: 08 8562 1080
Open: Wednesday to Monday 10.30 to 4.30
Address: Light Pass Road, Light Pass, Barossa Valley S.A., 5355.
Deep red in colour. Intense aromas of plums, dark chocolate and violets with hints of black pepper and liquorice. A complex and attractive bouquet which draws us towards the wine. The palate shows a rich and full flavoured wine with cool climate spice and pepper characters, yet is characterised by intensity and power. Dark plum fills the front palate and is backed with wonderful cool climate notes of violets and black pepper. The richness carries through the palate and is enhanced by balanced tannins, fine acidity and hints of high quality French oak. The finish is rich long and powerful.
“Enjoy now with red meat or cellar for eight to ten years.”
I think that this wine completes the Portfolio of 3 Drops wines in the Dozens. I've long thought these wines are a good fit here, but vaguely lamented (if that's the right word) the fact that the Great Southern is beyond a 'fair drive.' So, when Jo Bradbury held the local tasting in April, I went with the idea to, probably, include the their Shiraz in the May Dozen. And it was at the tasting that the unexpected (as it was unlisted) Cabernet Franc stole the attention. And fair enough, a terrific story. And of the Shiraz I knew I had a wine for August.
Available to Retail.
Web: www.3drops.com
Phone: 08 9315 4721
Open: No Cellar Door
Address: PO Box 1828, Applecross, Western Australia, 6953
All prices on this web site are in $AUD
Liquor Licence LIQP24009748
Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners.
Under the Liquor Act 2007, It is an offence to sell or supply to or to obtain liquor on behalf of a person under the age of 18 years.
You will be required to provide proof of age before any goods are shipped.
