Gibson Reserve Shiraz
Gibson Wines is one of the reasons why we all love the Barossa Valley so much. Small family winery, ancient soils, hand-crafter wines all made by a true Barossa character, Rob Gibson. With his signature moustache and motorcyclists' leather waistcoat, Rob puts all his years of experience into every bottle. The Reserve Shiraz is grown from a single estate vineyard in Stockwell and displays aromas and flavours that are fresh and lively with juicy fruit tones that are hard to find in 2007. Amazing what can be achieved with rigorous fruit selection and detailed winemaking.
Fletcher The Minion Nebbiolo
The focus here for this wine by Fletcher is on what Nebbiolo as a variety can do in Australian terroir. The philosophy behind these wines is to de-construct tradition and start afresh. Driven with obsession and going against the grain, Ann from Fletcher had the foresight to plant small acreage to mixed clones of Nebbiolo in 1998, which officially makes this some of the oldest Nebbiolo in Australia. Meticulously manicured, this vineyard, after the green harvest, is lucky if it produces 2 tonnes to the acre, and the fruit it produces is floral, rich and backed by Nebbiolo's superior tannins.
Tamar Ridge Pinot Noir
There is no doubting the quality of Northern Tassie Pinot. This is a fine example from the Tamar Valley has elegance, length and varietal flavours of plum and cherry balanced by a touch of oak and light astringency.
Rivetto Langhe Nebbiolo
An extremely pleasing and drinkable wine, and although it has a high alcohol grade this never overpowers its fruity character. Its red colour has Bordeaux reflections and the slow trickle from the edge of the glass confirms its optimal concentration and good body. The palate is caressed by a smooth tannin content typical of the Nebbiolo grape and by a warm and enveloping flavour.
Pasquale Pelissero Simone Langhe Nebbiolo
Pasquale Pelissero is a small, family-run winery that originated in a garage under the guidance of "Papa" Pasquale, a trailblazing figure in Neive known for being among the first to independently bottle and market his wines. Despite being a traditionalist, Pasquale remained receptive to new winemaking and cellar management methods. The vineyards are highly esteemed, often attracting visits from fellow producers in the region. Nestled near the summit of Bricco San Giuliano hill, the cellar is entirely enveloped by Pelissero vineyards. Following Pasquale's passing in 2007, his daughter Ornella has admirably upheld the family's legacy, managing all aspects of the vineyards and cellar, with her only innovation being the acquisition of a temperature-controlled fermentation tank. Their Bricco San Giuliano Barbaresco originates from an 8-hectare plot situated approximately 400 meters above sea level and undergoes exclusive aging in large casks, while the Dolcetto, characterized by its plum notes and intriguing hints of flint and smoke, matures in stainless steel. Situated in the historically significant and picturesque Neive, the winery's annual output totals around 15,000 bottles. The estate is a proud member of "Biotipicità," a recently established consortium of Langhe producers committed to sustainable farming practices in accordance with the Italian "lotta integrata" regulation. Crafted from 100% Nebbiolo grapes, the Pasquale Pelissero Langhe Nebbiolo 2022 eloquently expresses the unique terroir of its origin. Cultivated in vineyards with a south-west exposure at an elevation of 400 meters, the grapes thrive in marly-calcareous soil and are nurtured using the Guyot training system, reflecting the vineyards' 10-year maturity. This wine entices with a captivating pale garnet red hue and emanates an enchanting bouquet of rose, violet, small fruits, black pepper and cardamom. On the palate, it delivers a decisive, fresh and bold experience, making it a delightful choice for shared moments.
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.
Escarpment Pinot Noir
Martinborough is considered by many as the home of Pinot Noir - not only in New Zealand but the 'New World' in general. It is hard to argue when wines like this are produced. Pinot Noir superstar, Larry McKenna, hand-crafts a wine that is overflowing with perfumed black, red and green fruit flavours that are all in harmony with the mid-weighted palate. Textured oak and fine-grained tannin give a nod to the fact that this wine will age gracefully for a decade or more. A stunning benchmark.
Michele Chiarlo Nebbiolo Il Principe
Michele Chiarlo was founded in 1956 by the sole and present owners, Michele and Giuseppina Chiarlo. Son of over seven generations of esteemed wine growers, Mr. Chiarlo is today one of the most respected producers of the fine wines of Piedmont and a leading figure in its viticultural industry. The Principe is produced with the grapes from the Nebbiolo hills in the Langa area and has been left to refine in large vats for a year. Notes of violet, red fruits and elegant fine spices. Harmonious, with good structure, the presence of fine tannins and a good round finish.
Marcarini Lasarin Nebbiolo
If you should visit La Morra, there are two locations you shouldnt miss, both perched on the top of this Langhe hill. One is the stunning view from the top of the town with sweeping views of Barolo DOCG, and the other, on the main square, is the Marcarini winery that dates back to the 1700s. Lasarin is produced from the grapes of the youngest Nebbiolo-Barolo vineyards and, in particular, from the ancient Nebbiolo vineyard in the Roero region (on the left side of the Tanaro river), uniting the grapes noble heritage with enjoyable freshness and easy drinking. The nose recalls flowers, raspberries and blackberries; in the mouth it is dry, balanced, velvety and enjoyably tannic, a legacy of the noble Nebbiolo grape.
Ricossa Barolo DOC
A wine that pours into the glass with a garnet red colour with orange highlights. The bouquet is typical of the vine, and is in fact characterized by hints of licorice, amalgamated with aromas of red fruits, spicy hints and notes of toasted caramel. In the mouth it has a good structure, a balanced full-bodied wine with an irobust texture to be savoured. A seductive and elegant red which, thanks to well-orchestrated tannins, becomes an excellent wine to pair with red meat dishes and well-aged cheese platters.