From a recent tasting of aged Australian cabernets, Cape Mentelle was one of my absolute favorit, and perhaps the most classical wine in the lineup.
australian
Glaetzer Wallace 2018
I was expecting a fruit bomb, but it’s something different, which I liked first, but then… Continue reading
Lovely OZ Grenache: Willunga Clarendon 2015
As far as I can tell Grenache is on the rise down under, at least some bloggers are enthusiastic about the variety. I can see why, when tasting wines like this Willunga The Hundred Clarendon Single Vineyard 2015 release.
Not a Shiraz – Mayer Syrah 2019, Yarra Valley, Australia
Small production, artisanal Australian Syrah from a cooler climate. It indeed has nothing to do with bold Oz Shirazes. I found their Close Planted Pinot Noir 2012 quite stunning earlier this year, and while this Syrah is also pretty, it hardly comes close.
S. C. Pannell Basso Grenache 2017, McLaren Vale
It’s been too long since the last Grenache post on this blog… so here you go. This comes from Australia, from a highly regarded artisanal producer and it does not disappoint.
Something special – Greenock Creek Apricot Block Shiraz 2014, Barossa Valley
Unmistakeably Greenock Creek – it’s so different to all Aussie reds I know. To me, the style is even more unique than Wendouree’s.
Top class Grüner Veltliner from Australia – Hahndorf Hill 2016
Grüner Veltliner is not a variety one associates with Australia, but taste this and you will probably agree with me: they should plant more. Continue reading
S. C. Pannell Dead End Tempranillo 2015, McLaren Vale, Australia
Purity is the key here. I just love the style – this tastes like real wine. It definitely has some Old World charm, it’s not in your face. Opens with reduction, but that quickly dissipates. Where is the mint? Is it really Aussie? Medium-bodied and juicy. Unforced yet has an impact. Nice acidity, pleasantly coarse tannins, everything looks real, not added – keys for drinkability. Not really structured, probably meant to be consumed when young, I guess it was even better one or twp year ago. Now it’s developed – still very good, but I would drink it up earlier.