Chandon Non-Vintage Sparkling Brut
This is the Australian benchmark for bubbles in this price range and will hold its position as the ever-reliable party favourite. A racy, acid belt slices through the palate of fresh grapefruit and lemon gelati. Squeaky clean and smooth til the end with an endless stream of fine bubbles. 94 Points James Halliday.
Giant Steps Applejack Vineyard Chardonnay
Sticks Pinot Noir
Once again this producer provides us with a handy little number showing plenty of varietal and regional characteristics. Sticks Pinot Noir from Yarra Valley, features lovely red cherry flavours with playfull spices and charry oak influence. Lean with subtle tannins and medium finish.
Denton Shed Chardonnay
Sourced from the cooler North Eastern slope of the Denton View Hill. Whole bunch pressed, wild ferment, wild malo. Matured in French oak and stainless steel tank for 5 months and early bottling in Spring without fining or filtration.
Animale Chardonnay
Zonzo Estate
A beautiful Pinot with a bouquet of juicy plum fruits, berries and spice with very gentle notes of dried thyme.
Yering Station Pinot Noir
Victoria's first vineyard is a landmark in the Yarra Valley and an icon of the Australian wine industry. Loads of lovely Pinot character on the nose with ripe cherry gamey notes and hints of "forest floor". Silky in texture the lingering flavour is enhanced by a touch of oak.
Rising Pinot Noir
Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir
This 20ha vineyard was planted on red clay loam soil at Woori Yallock in 2001 by Lou Primavera, with whom Giant Steps has a long-standing grape-supply relationship. Pinot Noir (114, MV6 and G8V3 clones) grown here on the north and north east facing slopes at 230m is noted for its complex structure and pronounced perfume. The 114 and MV6 are fermented as whole bunches in open vats, while the G8V3 is destemmed, given a long cold-soak and fermented separately to enhance its aromatic contribution. All ferments use indigenous yeasts and the whole-bunch components are periodically foot-stomped to release additional juice. The wines are pressed to 228 litre, French barriques (about 8% new) for 11 months before blending and bottling without fining or filtration.
Oakridge Over The Shoulder Chardonnay
Oakridge are at their best with premium Chardonnay, and it shows here. This is their signature; delicious nectarine and minerals, finely textured structure and gorgeous length.