Drayton's Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay 2009

Drayton's is a large Hunter Valley producer punching out approximately 500 000 dozen each year.

This Vineyard Reserve comes from vines planted in the mid 1970's and spent six months in French oak, a combination of new with some two to three year old.

The wine drew me in easily. Stone fruit aromas abundant, toast characters and a caramelised toffee peanut thing going on which I liked... lots!

These elements flowed nicely onto the palate. Nectarine and peachy goodness joined by waves of creaminess which swept through culminating with a soft finish that lingered well.

A wine you'd happily open the wallet for. Drink with veal or even pumpkin ravioli.

Who: Drayton's Family Wines www.draytonswines.com.au
What: Chardonnay (12.5% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2009
How: $30

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Pepper Tree Limited Release Verdelho 2012

An example of how tasty Verdelho can be yet it's hard to fathom why more people don't beat its drum.

A nice little thirst quencher this, coming from Hunter Valley fruit.

Some inviting floral aromas which I liked. Plenty of of honey dew melon, pineapple and stone fruit characters in the mix too. These  flow onto the palate which seems to open a new door of flavour at every turn. Some subtle spice tickle on the finish wraps up a wine which is crisp, fresh and so easy to throw down the hatch.

Enjoy by itself whilst relaxing with friends or have with Asian foods.

Who: Pepper Tree www.peppertreewines.com.au/
What: Verdelho (12.5% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2012
How: $22

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McLeish Estate Semillon Chardonnay 2011

This had a little wow factor. Lovely clean flavours and a ripping price to boot.

A blend of 60% Semillon and 40 % Chardonnay. Some Chardonnay was aged briefly in one year old oak, a small portion being barrel fermented.

Plenty of apple flavours with some citrus then a rush of stone fruit follow from the Chardonnay component. Green apple acidity cleanses the palate. Very tasty indeed and a super drop for a hot day. $18 bucks = bargain!

Forget matching it with food, it'll be gone in quick time.

Available online or cellar door.

Who: McLeish Estate http://www.mcleishhunterwines.com.au/
What: Semillon Chardonnay (12% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2011
How: $18

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Drayton's Susanne Semillon 2009

This Drayton's flagship white wine comes from vines over 100 years old.

Aromas are soft with some pastry and biscuity highlights, joined by a slight whiff of honey. Some toasty characters are developing.

Flavours drive through to a generous and smooth palate. Well balanced and weighted leaving a forever length.

Represents good value for the $35 asked for. Have with seafood or even turkey.

Who: Drayton's Family Wines www.draytonswines.com.au
What: Semillon (11.5% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2009
How: $35

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Flynns Irena's Heathcote Verdelho 2010

Verdelho is seen more as a drink now variety but over the last few months I have had a look at some Verdelhos with a little age on them, and I am becoming fan. This wine has had some skillful winemaking applied delivering a great result.

I picked up this wine when I visited the winery back in June. The texture that this wine offers is the attractive feature for me as it is certainly not the clean and fresh style Verdelho that you often see on the shelves.

Aromas of tropical fruit and melon, a small portion of wine was barrel fermented and then a short stay in new and old French oak has added complexity. There is plenty of spice on offer, creaminess from the oak, along with good fruit flavours and spice lingering considerably... impressive. Still a little acid lurking, I'd like to see where this is at in another two years.

Something a little different worth considering.Yum!

Who: Flynns Wines www.flynnswines.com.au
What: Verdelho (13.8% alc)
Where: Heathcote
When: 2010
How: $25

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Emma's Cottage Vineyard

On my recent trip to the Hunter Valley, I had the pleasure of staying at Emma's Cottage Vineyard. A wonderful and relaxing place with spacious grounds, a restaurant on site, and a pool to cool down in on those hot days. The hosts are excellent and I certainly recommend the accommodation which caters for couples and families.

There are vineyards on the property which are used for their own label. Varieties planted include Chardonnay, Semillon, Verdelho, Cabernet Franc, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir. Approximately 900 dozen are produced each year, and the wines have been made for many years by David Hook.

A quick run through some of the wines:

Sparkling Chardonnay/Pinot Noir NV A refreshing style bubbles that doesn't hold the complexities of lees. Loaded with stone fruit and peach. Flavours are fresh on the front palate, good length and not too dry. The sparkling base is made by David Hook and the wine finished off by Peterson House. The $35 asked for is too high in my opinion.

Rosé 2011 Made from Pinot Noir. An easy drinking style. Dry cherry characters, rose petal aromas. A grainy tannin finish. $25

Pinot Noir 2007 Ripe and fully loaded, a soft elegant Pinot this is not. Many would safely assume this to be a Shiraz. Cherry compote, stewed plums and prunes deliver a lingering mouth warmth too. A touch of oak. Not my style. $30 (14.4% alc)

Shiraz 2007 A deep colour possessing brooding black fruit and meaty aromas. Spice and soft pepper coat the palate. Twelve months in American oak has added a subtle sweetness and the flavours roll through the palate well leaving a drying finish. Enjoyable but be sure to decant. $35 (13.5% alc)

David Hook Reserve Barbera 2009

Plenty of savoury flavours dominate here. Lovely smells of violets, a snip of rose and twiggy earthiness lead to a delicious palate. The fruit punches through to the finish nicely, coupled with a delicate and soft spice. The finish lingers well with soft tannins wrapping it up.

I had this with spaghetti bolognese (of course!) and it went down a treat. A wine to be had within the next few years, and a wine easily enjoyed.

Certainly worth jotting this down on the shopping list for the future.

Who: David Hook www.davidhookwines.com.au/
What: Barbera (13% alc)
Where: Orange
When: 2011
How: $30

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David Hook De Novo Bianco 2012

An interesting wine. A blend of Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc all from Orange, New South Wales.

All were barrel fermented separately in older French oak and on lees for six months prior to blending.

Some slight toasty aromas coupled with stone fruit, even a hint of nougat. The textured palate is appealing but the green apple acidity just doesn't hit it off for me with the flavours offered. Length is good and drying, but the acid asks more questions than gives answers.

Not a wine I would buy, and I must admit, I have never said that before about a David Hook wine.

Who: David Hook www.davidhookwines.com.au/
What: Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Chardonnay & Sauvignon Blanc (13% alc)
Where: Orange
When: 2012
How: $30

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Tahbilk Shiraz 2008

A mission to the bottle shop with twenty bucks saw this make its way home. Admittedly I have had this wine previously but not blogged it, and whilst I didn't intend blogging this one either, I couldn't help but share the bang for buck factor.

Coming from Nagambie Lakes in Victoria, I narrowed down my search to three wines on the shelf. What tipped me towards this wine was the fact it had four years of age already under its belt, not to mention I received twenty cents change!
Super dark colour, a bounty of spice, chocolate, plummy goodness. Plenty of guts here, and the black fruit flavours kick through to the finish with a soft and generous length. Oak was well integrated. A suggestion the fruit was a little over ripe, but this didn't detract from a wine which was still an enjoyable drop.

Go shopping for this and you'll be smiling.

Who: Tahbilk http://www.tahbilk.com.au
What: Shiraz (14.5% alc)
Where: Nagambie Lakes
When: 2008
How: $19.80 (on special at an independent retailer)

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Cooks Lot Semillon Sauvignon Blanc 2012

A blend of 60% Semillon and 40% Sauvignon Blanc with all fruit coming from Orange, New South Wales.

Nearly clear in appearance with a light green hue. Quite an aromatic wine with green pea, cut herbs and passionfruit leaping out from the glass. The palate has good weight but a little light on the flavour I felt. Pea and passionfruit characters slide through softly. Acid is soft. Have with food, fish and chips would go well.

 

Not a wine I would buy, but the ladies I shared it with enjoyed it.

Who: Cooks Lot Wines www.CooksLot.com.au
What: Semillon Sauvignon Blanc (12% alc)
Where: Orange
When: 2012
How: $20

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David Hook Old Vines Pothana Vineyard Semillon 2012

Only produced in a good year, this Pothana Vineyard Semillon was hand picked from low yielding vines in the Hunter Valley sub region of Belford.

Aromas of citrus, fresh cut herbs and a tiny tropical element.  The fruit is delicate, soft and mouthfilling with the citrus flavours dominating. Acid is also soft ensuring this wine is very approachable.

A good drop to quench your thirst to end a hot day. The finish is long and moreish, although there is a slippery character on the finish which lurked. I suggest have with herb marinated barbecued chicken and salad. That was my match and it went down a treat.

Drink now or hold on to it for the medium term.

Who: David Hook www.davidhookwines.com.au/
What: Semillon (10.5% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2012
How: $25

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Tobin Wines "Max" Shiraz 2009

Quite a different wine to the Max Shiraz 2010, which was medium bodied, lots of berry fruit and finishing well tannins bordering dusty.

This 2009, still available at the cellar door or online, is darker with brooding gutsy aromas of chocolate, cherry ripe with a dash of cinnamon. Cherry ripe flavours are awash in the mouth as are dense plums. Well structured with a forever lasting length. And just when all is gone, there is a neat chocolate touch which reappears. Fine silky tannins seal the deal.

Much of Adrian Tobin's wines are currently sold out due to popularity which is great to see for a small operator. Adrian is considering a closing his cellar door as a result with members and interstate folk buying the bulk. A bold move, but hey, his wines are speaking for themselves. Neat packaging and little touches at the cellar door cap off very well produced wines.

Before writing off Queensland's ability to produce good wine, best you get your hands on some Tobin Wines.

Who: Tobin Wines http://www.tobinwines.com.au/
What: Shiraz (14.4% alc)
Where: Granite Belt
When: 2010
How: $45

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David Hook Reserve De Novo Rosso 2011

David Hook's wines are so easy to knock back, and here is yet more proof. This wine will disappear from your glass in no time.

An even blend of Barbera, Nebbiolo and Sangiovese, all the fruit comes from different Hunter Valley sites.

A good whiff of violets hit me straight up and this lingered considerably amongst some dry herb,cherry compote and even a hint of rose water.

You'd expect the wine to be smooth with the three varieties represented, and it is. Great fruit depth, a little spice on the finish which lingers nicely, rounded off with soft, fine tannins.

Have with an Italian tomato based dish, a perfect match. A wine well worth the $30 asking price.

Who: David Hook www.davidhookwines.com.au/
What: De Novo Rosso - Barbera, Nebbiolo, Sangiovese (13% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2011
How: $30

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Pepper Tree Alluvius Semillon 2012

Another beauty from Pepper Tree.

Some things are best kept simple...

Gentle aromas of lemony citrus, slight nutty characters and a touch of honey all greet you. The soft fruit and gentle natural acid are very appealing. Flavours power through with some minerality in the mix. Wonderful length completing a wine which will age gracefully.

The back label says, "extraordinary finesse". Yup!

Perfect for fresh seafood, I'm thinking Moreton Bay bugs with a fresh salad.

Who: Pepper Tree www.peppertreewines.com.au/
What: Semillon (10.8% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2012
How: $35

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Luke Lambert Reserve Syrah 2010

Sealed with wax and wrapped in a contemporary label, this wine presents very well. Only 1081 bottles were made and each bottle is individually numbered.

Luke’s 2010 Syrah blew me away with its funk, yet there were masculine and feminine characteristics in the mix too.

This Reserve though is a cut above again. But rather than be in the same style, this is more sexy. A lace and knickers version if you will. Elegant, oozing wow factor.

The fruit comes from St Andrews, Yarra Valley, was hand sorted, wild yeast fermented with 100% whole bunches, old French oak was employed, and in the typical Lambert fashion, bottled without fining or filtration.

Raspberries, charred oak and cedar all kicking away nicely when I swirled the glass. A good whiff of plums and plum jam - the European style loaded with fruit, not the sugar laden jam often seen on shelves.

The palate highlighted by soft, supple and silky flavours of plums and blackberry fruits. A touch of chocolate sneaks in too. Gorgeous soft powdery tannins cap off a delight.

A wonderful example of precision winemaking and something worth considering to treat yourself with.

Available at online or through selected independent retailers. Or if in the Yarra, contact Luke for an appointment.

Who: Luke Lambert www.lukelambertwines.com.au
What: Syrah (13% alc)
Where: Yarra Valley
When: 2010
How: $65

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McLeish Estate Dwyer Rosé 2012

I was sharing this with friends and as I was topping up glasses, I was met with the response, "Oh, I don't like sweet wine."

This response is one which is sadly common amongst those with preconceived ideas on Riesling and Rosé. Movements such as @RoseRev are doing a fabulous job to get more people to introduce themselves to a bit of pink, but also break down the barriers which have been built for whatever reason. Most importantly, not all Riesling and Rosé are sweet!

This Rosé from the Hunter Valley is made from Shiraz. Bright cherry appearance, there are aromas of currants and watermelon, though these aromas weren't leaping from the glass.

A dry style Rosé, there is a lick of spice and some textural interest on the palate. Good length backs this up well too. A wine to have with food, the back label suggests Turkish Delight flavours, something I wasn't picking up.

Chill down and enjoy with a meat board. I did and it matched the food beautifully.

Who: McLeish Estate http://www.mcleishhunterwines.com.au/
What: Rosé - Shiraz (11.9% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2012
How: $18

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David Hook Pinot Grigio 2012

This Pinot Grigio comes from low yielding vines in the Hunter Valley, and man, it's easy to sip away.

Soft aromas of spring flowers and poached pear lead to a palate delivering good fruit with clean and crisp flavours. Not too complex, this is a great summer drink. The finish lingers nicely and couple this drop with prawns sitting poolside, you'll be making your insides smile.

Good buying for $18. I happily recommend it.


Who: David Hook www.davidhookwines.com.au/
What: Pinot Grigio (11.5% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2012
How: $18

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The Qwine Christmas Stocking

2012 has been a fantastic year! I have had the privilege to meet so many more industry folk whilst also having the opportunity to have a look at an absolute myriad of wines. Some great, some outstanding!
Sincere thanks to those who have assisted me to grow and develop my skills and knowledge. My thanks also to the wineries who have been kind enough to send me samples. Without you, this wouldn't be possible. The wine industry is exceptional for assisting others to learn and enjoy the great drop we call humbly call wine.

So, after blogging some 170+ wines in 2012, here is my pick. There is something here for everyone! Load up with these stocking fillers and many other reasons to celebrate.

Some fizz

Dal Zotto Pucino Prosecco NV

Best White under $10

Yalumba Y Series Vermentino 2011 

McWilliams Hanwood Chardonnay 2009

Best Red under $10

Angove Long Row Shiraz 2008 

Yalumba Y Series Sangiovese Rose 2012

Best White under $20

O'Leary Walker Watervale Riesling 2012 

O'Leary Walker Sauvignon Blanc 2012

Best Red under $20

Yalumba The Scribbler 2010

TeAro Joker's Grin 2008

Cooks Lot Shiraz 2011

Absolute Deliciousness

Luke Lambert Syrah 2010

Soul Growers Equilibrium SGM 2009

Something That's Not Sauvignon Blanc

Chalk Hill Vermentino 2012

Oliver's Taranga Vermentino 2012

Tahbilk Viognier 2011

De Iuliis Sunshine Vineyard Semillon 2012
Peppertree Tallawanta Semillon 2012

 

Something Different Red

Brash Higgins Grenache Mataro 2011

Murray Street Black Label Mataro 2010

Big Spender

Peppertree Coquun Shiraz 2010

What's on my Christmas Table?

White

McWilliams Lovedale Semillon 2007

Red

Oliver's Taranga HJ Reserve Shiraz 2008

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all!

Cheers,
Steve

Cooks Lot Pinot Gris 2012

The use of partial barrel fermentation by winemaker Duncan Cook has again provided a wine with good weight and texture.

A slight apricot nectar type appearance, there are also some gentle apricot aromas, subtle vanillin oak and cinnamon spice.

The palate possesses some stewed apple type flavours and distinct nougat nuances. There is some minerality which adds to the interest, all capped off with a quite impressive length.


All this for $20. A bargain! Have with prosciutto or roast pork.

Who: Cooks Lot Wines www.CooksLot.com.au
What: Pinot Gris (13.2% alc)
Where: Orange
When: 2012
How: $20

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Bimbadgen Signature Mistletoe Lane Vineyard Shiraz 2011

The fruit for this wine comes from forty year old vines in an established Orlando Wyndham vineyard on Mistletoe Lane in Pokolbin. Hand picked with 20% whole bunch fermentation.

Well balanced, aromas of raspberry, cloves, black olives, some earthy characters and a little touch of dark chocolate.

All flowed neatly onto a generous palate. Medium bodied, some prune type flavours amongst the soft fruits. Subtle spices clung to the finish. Well integrated oak sits in the background. Fine grainy tannins.

Winemaker Sarah Crowe has done a great job.

A little more bottle age will help this sing. Have with beef fillet.

Who: Bimbadgen http://www.bimbadgen.com.au/
What: Shiraz (13% alc)
Where: Hunter
When: 2011
How: $50

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Yalumba Y Series Sauvignon Blanc 2012

The majority of the fruit for this Savvy comes from the Barossa (84%).

For me, there were a number of similarities to a Riesling and Semillon, more so than that of a Sauvignon Blanc.

Lemons and some pineapple aromas roll into the palate that has good weight and is well coated. I wouldn't suggest the flavours fall in the category of fresh, as there was a little texture for interest.

Getting away from analytics, this is a very easy drinking wine. Forget varietal traits of what you'd usually expect from a Sauvignon Blanc.
I had this with some barbecued chicken and it went down nicely.

Who: Yalumba www.yalumba.com
What: Sauvignon Blanc (12%abv)
Where: Barossa Valley
When: 2012
How: $14.95

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Bimbadgen MCA Series Sangiovese 2011

Affectionately known as "The Goat Wine" due to its trendy label, I enjoyed the approachability, easy drinking style it delivered.

Made with fruit from the Mudgee region, New South Wales.

Plenty of cherry flavours, soft with a jab of spice, some savory appeal rounded it off with firm yet tasty tannins.

Wash down a lovely tomato based dish with this. A perfect match.

Who: Bimbadgen http://www.bimbadgen.com.au/
What: Sangiovese (13% alc)
Where: Mudgee
When: 2011
How: $26

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Yalumba The Scribbler 2010

Another beauty from the Yalumba stable. How they continually churn out wines which are packed with flavour and so reasonable on the hip pocket is anyones guess. But hey, stop thinkin', start drinkin'.

Barossa fruit with a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (57%) and Shiraz (43%).

Loads of blackberry, blackcurrant and plummy aromas with some nuttiness, black olive and a few chips of chocolate. Although I did have to wait for a little heat to blow off, when it did the jewel was revealed.

Well balanced, I loved the fruit weight and structure. Plenty offered with a clear line up the middle of the palate washing up some savory characters. Some cheeky spice elements were in the mix too thanks to the generous dollop of Shiraz.

Seen as The Signature's little brother, The Scribbler holds it own very well. More than drinkable now, you could cellar it for the medium term. Often on sale below $20, this is well worth seeking out.

Perfect for a BBQ or a roast.

Who: Yalumba http://www.yalumba.com/
What: Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz (13.5%abv)
Where: Barossa Valley
When: 2010
How: $22.95

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Cooks Lot Shiraz 2011

A classic cool climate Shiraz at a ripping price.

Crazy value for $20! Definitely worth a, "Who ha!" in your best Al Pacino voice from the movie "Scent of a Woman".

Loaded with bright fruits, there is an abundance of raspberry aromas, white pepper, and clove.

Medium bodied, this is a juicy and elegant style. Soft fruits dominate. Yum! Oak sits in the background beautifully allowing the raspberry and blackberry flavours to dance.

Impressive structure and length. The spice and white pepper linger for a substantial time. Damn, this is an excellent drop!

Find it. Get it. Who ha!

Who: Cooks Lot Wines www.CooksLot.com.au
What: Shiraz (13% alc)
Where: Orange
When: 2011
How: $20

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Bimbadgen Regions Pinot Noir 2011

Bimbadgen recently showcased their wines which come from regions outside their Hunter Valley home. Run as #nottheusualBimbadgen on Twitter, the night was very successful.

This wine was a hit with participants. An attractive nose of earthy, dirtiness along with forest floor and moist mulch. Some would argue this is not attractive. I agree. It's sexy!

What seems like a basket full of soft berries, they slide through, smooth as silk. Those mulchy foresty flavours kick on. There is a little acid zip and the flavours linger long on the front palate.

Worth a look. The price is up there however. No doubt the transport costs to get the fruit from Tasmania to the Hunter Valley would contribute. I'd shout bargain had it been around the $30 mark - which it is for members as they receive a 20% discount.

Who: Bimbadgen http://www.bimbadgen.com.au/
What: Pinot Noir (13.5% alc)
Where: Tasmania
When: 2011
How: $39

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Cooks Lot Cabernet Sauvignon Lot#9999 2011

A handy drop of Cabernet Sauvignon from Orange, New South Wales.

Bright in appearance, the nose is fragrant with buckets of blackberries and cassis.

Blackberries flavours were abundant with a nice touch of oak complementing it. These flavours were soft, but not as full and punchy as I hoped. If anything, for my palate, they dissolved a little sooner than expected.

I do prefer a bigger Cabernet, but if soft elegance is what you seek, seek no more.

Another success story from this small operator. Winestate gives it 4 stars. Easy to see how.

Who: Cooks Lot Wines www.CooksLot.com.au
What: Cabernet Sauvignon (13.5% alc)
Where: Orange
When: 2011
How: $20

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Yalumba Y Series Sangiovese Rosé 2012

The Yalumba Y Series oozes value right across the range. Every wine is very approachable and non-confrontational, and so, so drinkable.

This Y Series Sangiovese Rosé is no different. I did my bit with it and indulged in the #RoseRev on Twitter, Wednesday 14 November. Once again, a very easy drinking wine. I had to keep checking the alcohol content as this slid down the hatch without trouble.

Cherries and dried strawberry type aromas. A Rosé on the drier side, the palate isn't laced with flavour, though the cherries perch themselves nicely. The action is at the front to mid palate. An ever so subtle spice on the finish, but the approachability makes this a bargain.

RRP of $14.95, the Y Series is often discounted to around the $10 mark which makes this excellent buying. And if you did pay the full tilt, you are still winning.

Drink chilled soaking up the sun, picnicking with friends or sitting on the beach.

A drop like this doesn't need analysis though, just drink it and smile!

Who: Yalumba http://www.yalumba.com/
What: Rosé - Sangiovese (12%abv)
Where: Barossa Valley
When: 2012
How: $14.95

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Luke Lambert Syrah 2010

This is some funky gear coming from winemaker Luke Lambert. He's a thinker and not afraid to veer from the norm. A driven individual who leaves no stone unturned. It is no surprise he is making plenty of people take note of his work.

Luke is noted particularly for his Nebbiolo, and both the current release of his Heathcote 2010 and Reserve 2008 have already sold out.

The fruit for this Syrah comes from the Yarra Valley. Matured in 27 year old oak, 60% whole bunches, it was wild yeast fermented and bottled without fining or filtration.

Plenty of smoke and char aromas interwoven with a rustic edge. There's an earthiness evident yet a softer side with a slight violet fragrance too. Distinct cardamom wafts around as well. Lots going on for sure, and I like it!

The palate is well structured and the density of the black fruit is excellent. A wine which certainly gives you plenty to think about. I loved the complexity it offers. Very tasty indeed and so easy to sip away.  Best of all, you get a distinct sense of a 'bare hands' winemaking approach.

Available at good independent retailers and online. A wine definitely worth getting hold of.

Who: Luke Lambert www.lukelambertwines.com.au
What: Syrah (13.5% alc)
Where: Yarra Valley
When: 2010
How: $38

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McWilliams Mount Pleasant Elizabeth Semillon 2006

This wine is the Cellar Aged release and I like the way McWilliams and many wineries go about the deliberate aged release of Semillon. If anything, it highlights how versatile this grape is. A recent look at the Mount Pleasant Elizabeth 2011 was timely, seeing what a few years does to the wine.

The back label states, "...admired when allowed to age gracefully." I'd agree with this for sure.

Bright golden in appearance, there are plenty of powerful aromas of kerosene and even what appeared to be wet rope. A lemon citrus element was evident in there too.

The wine is mouthfilling and coats the palate well. There was a good deal of complexity and the flavours have developed well. Good palate weight added to the picture nicely, as did the texture and density of the fruit. Preserved lemon and lemon cheesecake type flavours kicked around as did some green apple as the wine flowed through to the back.

The acid was soft but there was still some there for future development.

I did enjoy the wine and putting away a few bottles of the new release to savour in a few years is a no brainer. But why wait when the aging has already been done for you. Good value for $24.

Who: McWilliams http://www.mountpleasantwines.com.au/

What: Semillon (10.5% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2006
How: $24

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Bimbadgen Regions Pinot Gris 2012

This fruit for this addition to the Bimbadgen Regions range comes from the Adelaide Hills.

Made in the Alsace style, this Pinot Gris offers a fair whiff of canned pear, soft citrus and lychee. A flowery perfume hovers as well.

An ever so slight sweetness on the palate first up but this dries out quick and the finish is dry.  There's plenty of fruit here which drives the bus. Lots of citrus activity on a well weighted palate. The length was very good. Moreish.

It's not hard to keep topping up the glass with this gear, that's for sure. Drink now with chicken and mushroom risotto. I did and it was a winner.
Good buying for $23.
Who: Bimbadgen http://www.bimbadgen.com.au/
What: Pinot Gris (13% alc)
Where: Adelaide Hills
When: 2012
How: $23

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Cooks Lot Sauvignon Blanc Lot #689 2012

From a small producer in Orange, NSW, who is making plenty of noise with this Sauvignon Blanc.

Winemaker Duncan Cook has applied some left field tactics here with excellent effect. Whilst the vast majority of Sauvignon Blanc have a distinct sameness and they are jammed down the consumer's throat from regions across the Tasman, this wine gives you something to think about.

Fresh passionfruit sets the aromas alight. Some time in the glass released a touch of pineapple sage. Enticing tropical aromas with the added bonus of an ever so subtle vanillin oak character.

Possessing a lovely zip to it, the acid and fruit balance is spot on. What seals the deal for me is the added texture on the palate. This was achieved through some oak treatment and lees stirring. Oak treatment came in the form of starves with a little wine barrel fermented in two year puncheons. The wine was left on lees for two months and stirred twice weekly. Oak contact was minimal (1-2g/L), and along with the time on lees, the goal of adding some texture and palate weight was a achieved. Yum! Vanillin characters are barely noticeable and the wine retains its freshness. An impressive length caps off a well made wine.

For $20, this sits very comfortable in bargain territory. Drink in the short term with friends sharing big smiles. You'll love it! Those who swear by the big gun Halliday, he reckons 94 points and has put it as one of his Top 50 buys.

Who: Cooks Lot Wines www.CooksLot.com.au
What: Sauvignon Blanc (12.9% alc)
Where: Orange
When: 2012
How: $20

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Bimbadgen MCA Series Riesling 2012

For those punters who have been neglecting the goodness of Orange, man, you're missing out!

Bimbadgen, from the Hunter Valley, sourced this fruit and have weaved some magic.

Plenty of citrus, field flowers, chalkiness and a smidge of honey set the scene.

Clean and fresh sums up the palate. The acid and flavours are well balanced. What you get though is  different to South Australian Rieslings.
Plenty of fruit here (not that I'm suggesting there is not enough fruit in SA Riesling), less minerality kick and the acid is softer. Gentle apple flavours with subtle honey, there is also some textural interest. A little zesty zip to cap it off and it's happy days.

You could cellar this for the medium term, but why? It's great how it is, and value for $26.

I like it. Lots! ....And the label is pretty cool too.

Who: Bimbadgen http://www.bimbadgen.com.au/
What: Riesling (13% alc)
Where: Orange
When: 2012
How: $26

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Pepper Tree Coquun Shiraz 2010

Just as I think I have a favourite from the new release Pepper Tree wines, along comes the flagship. And in your best US preacher voice rip out, "Oh, have mercy!"

Impeccable doesn't describe half of it!

A single vineyard wine which is wickedly silky and smooth. Medium bodied, it is spectacular now and will only get better.

Earthy and meaty aromas with a slight hint of beef stock. Plenty of dark and red fruits in there too. A touch of smoke and sweet oak char. A fair old whiff that is.

Plenty of seductive soft flavours which flow from the nose perfectly. There is a gorgeous spice which lingers beautifully. Lovely oak which is balanced well too. Once you tip it in the flavours roll through the mouth like a landslide, covering every speck. The length is excellent and hovers for what seems an eternity.

A bloody good bottle of wine, and once again as I've found with the new release Pepper Tree range, very well made.

Would I buy it? Hell yeah!

Who: Pepper Tree www.peppertreewines.com.au/
What: Shiraz (14.5% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2010
How: $55

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McWilliams Mt Pleasant Elizabeth Semillon 2011

When working in retail, this wine was my go-to on shelf bargain. Why? Quite simply, Semillon was going through tough times and no one was buying it which was great for the consumer in the know...there was plenty of it sitting on shelves aging nicely.

Although this was not great for the winery at the time (slow sales), those in the know could sniff out a Semillon with plenty of bottle age. So once the shelf stocks were cleaned out at my work place when I got onto it, I headed to small bottleshops in far away places, and bingo, aged Elizabeth Semillon awaited me with a few years bottle age it.

This "loop hole" of mine has now been thwarted sadly - Semillon is back and people are appreciating its beauty. And rightfully so. But if you're out somewhere, take a sneak peak at the vintage of this wine on the shelf. You may land a surprise bargain too.

Vintage 2011 Mt Pleasant Elizabeth is a cracker. Spring flowers, green apple and leafy aromas set the floor alight. Clean and crisp flavours dominate. There is crunchy acid and the level of acid oozes aging capacity. The palate is coated beautifully with big fat flavours which wrap up with a ridiculously long length.

A great drink now and it will only get better.

For the price, do yourself a favour. Get some, and drink them periodically. There's easily 10 years sitting in this one. I've seen this discounted close to $11 and $12. Time for you to indulge in a bargain I suggest.

Who: McWilliams http://www.mcwilliams.com.au/

What: Semillon (11% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2011
How: $15

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Bimbadgen Regions Gewurztraminer 2012

The Fruit for the Regions label comes from outside the Hunter Valley where the winery is based.  Orange in NSW is where this Gewurztraminer is grown.

Rose water and Turkish delight feature here as they do with Gewurztraminer. There is a florally kick, a pinch of cinnamon and a slap of pear skin too. A great start!

Plenty of texture adds interest on the palate. There is some warmth and the pear flavours strut their stuff. Length is good but the flavours aren't centre stage as I thought they might be.

A good food wine which will match any Asian cuisine well.

Who: Bimbadgen http://www.bimbadgen.com.au/
What: Gewurztraminer (13.5% alc)
Where: Orange
When: 2012
How: $23

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McWilliams Morning Light Botrytis Semillon 2009

A gorgeous golden colour greets you, and fans of Botrytis, it's time to get excited.

This wine is presents very well. All elements are in check with silky texture, super long length, and although sweet as you'd expect, it's not a sickly sweetness which turns some punters away from this style of wine.

Dried fruits of apricots and mango with some floral aromas get the party started. Intense and seductive. The thick syrupy consistency and texture on the palate were a highlight for me. That mango and apricot deliciousness followed through beautifully with some mandarin and orange peel. And talk about length. Whoa! 

Every sip brought even more joy, and for fans of Botrytis, I can certainly highly recommend this wine.

Sublime!

Who: McWilliams http://www.mcwilliams.com.au/

What: Botrytis Semillon (11% alc)
Where: Riverina
When: 2009
How: $30

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Pepper Tree Limited Release Tallavera Shiraz 2011

Some of Pepper Tree's Hunter Valley vineyards are located at Tallavera Grove, Mt View, which is nestled in the foothills of the Brokenback Range in the Lower Hunter.

Coming from a single vineyard, there is plenty going on here to appease the masses, and once again, this wine is very well made by Jim Chatto.

Mulberry, earthen and leather characters bounce around.

A medium bodied Shiraz, the wine delivers good structure and super oak integration. I felt the acid is a tad high at the moment, but give this time, it will definitely settle. This wasn't made for immediate drinking.

Generous fruit coats the palate beautifully. Mulberry flavours kick in on the palate with some plum flavours too. There is a nudge of smoked hock which I liked. Soft tannins with a delicious spice to cap it off.

Lay this baby down for a rest and give it a cuddle when it wakes. You'll both be smiling!

Who: Pepper Tree www.peppertreewines.com.au/
What: Shiraz (13.5% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2011
How: $45

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Pepper Tree Limited Release Tallawanta Semillon 2012

Apple strudel and lime leaf struck me first up here, and I must say, the apple strudel action was very enticing.

Made from single vineyard fruit, there was plenty of lemon flavours and the apple chimed in nicely too. I loved the acid. It was lean, not cutting nor crunchy which is common with many new release Semillons. If anything, the softness of the acid could lead you thinking the wine was older than it was.

A perfect drop to drink on its own without the need for food, though seafood screams out for this baby. Very well structured and the flavours punch through nicely to a long finish.

Man I liked it and I'd love to see where this is at in five years.

Great buying for $28.

Who: Pepper Tree www.peppertreewines.com.au/
What: Semillon (10.8% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2012
How: $28

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Briar Ridge Dairy Hill Shiraz 2010

This is a very smart piece of work.

Wonderfully structured with flavours that slide through your mouth with ease. Housed in new and one year old French Oak for fourteen months, these flavours have added beautifully to the flavour profile.

A good whiff of blackberry, plums, black olive, a sliver of clove and perhaps even tar.

Medium bodied, the fruit flavours are luscious and supple. The gentle spice ticks away with a moreish long finish.

The wines packs a little punch with great depth of flavour, yet leaves with a soft and delicate touch.

The winery suggests 10 years cellaring for this. I won't disagree.

I'd buy it. You should too.

Who: Briar Ridge http://www.briarridge.com.au/
What: Shiraz (14.5% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2010
How: $55

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Bimbadgen Semillon 2012

A perfect drop for some prawns and oysters, and this is exactly how I enjoyed it. This wine shows the purity of fresh Hunter Valley Semillon.

Clean citrus flavours wrapped up by some crunchy and lively acid. Lots of lemons and limes. A slight whiff of lemon grass and leafiness.

It's just good drinking on a hot day damn it! A big tick for a drink now style.

Who: Bimbadgen http://www.bimbadgen.com.au/
What: Semillon (10% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2012
How: $22

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Pepper Tree Limited Release Shiraz 2011

This is a keeper and will show its best form in a couple of years. Be patient and you'll be rewarded in buckets.

The fruit comes from young vines of the Tallawanta vineyard in Pokolbin and was graced with twelve months in French oak.

Savoury notes, along with dried herb and leather kick start this beauty with a touch of vanillin oak.

The softness of these flavours and the oak integrate beautifully. An alluring medium body, it possesses a warmth which lingers nicely wrapping up with fine tannins and the finish  easily lasts a minute.

I really liked the fruit in this wine, superbly weighted, but felt the acid was just a smidge up there, hence, let this sit for a couple of years. The acid is all natural from the vineyard.

A good example of how bottle age will enhance the end result. Get one now and one for later.

Who: Pepper Tree www.peppertreewines.com.au/
What: Shiraz (13.5% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2011
How: $35

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Barambah Vineyard Selection Red 2008

Made for everyday consumption, this drop was good for what it delivered. It's not complex nor will it scoop the pool at a wine show, but what it will do is keep a smile on your face.

For $16 and released with plenty of bottle age on it, it goes well.

Some earthiness, dry leaves, dark fruits and a slight plum aroma on nose.

Not complex, just an easy drinking wine with a smooth transition from nose to palate.

Good tannin and surprising length. At its peak now.

Who: Barambah http://www.barambah.com.au/
What: Red Blend - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Grenache (13% abv)
Where: South Burnett, Queensland
When: 2008
How: $16

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Tobin Wines Lily Chardonnay 2012

A refreshing wine and then some. This unwooded Chardonnay presents beautifully and depicts exactly what winemaker Adrian Tobin has set out to achieve, that is, transport the fruit from the vineyard and present those flavours without intervening.

Soft, delicate and very moreish sum up this wine perfectly.

Nectarine, white fleshed peach, paw paw aromas leap from the glass and land perfectly in your mouth. These flavours are fresh, lively and refreshingly delicious.

The mid and front palate is where the action is at with a plentiful finish.

Have with prawns, rice paper rolls or a dish which oozes summer whilst soaking up the sun.

Grab it from the cellar door or online.

Who: Tobin Wines www.tobinwines.com.au
What: Chardonnay (13.6% alc)
Where: Granite Belt
When: 2012
How: $28

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Bimbadgen Rose 2012

This is a Rosé with some funk factor.

Predominantly Hunter Valley Shiraz with a dollop of Gewurztraminer from Orange, the two work splendidly together.

Bright in appearance, a bit like bright red cordial, I loved the aromatics which presented watermelon, a light dusting of cinnamon spice, lifted raspberry and strawberry. The Gewurztraminer chimed in delivering a gorgeous rose water element. All this before taking a sip!

A very easy drinking wine and there is plenty of fruity goodness on the palate. Gentle spice from the Shiraz on exit adds another dimension to the soft flavours which linger considerably, with a slight drying finish.

Shiraz has never hit it off with me when made into a Rosé, but perhaps this has converted me. For the $16, this is smokin' good value. Better still, Bimbadgen club members are offered discounts which drags this down to $12! Whoa!!

Get some and enjoy!

Who: Bimbadgen http://www.bimbadgen.com.au/
What: Rose (13% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2012
How: $16

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Evans & Tate Metricup Road Chardonnay 2010

Plenty to like about this. Structure, length, lovely aromatics, and the price.

Opening with nectarine and peach characters on the nose with a gentle whiff of lemon, flavours are well rounded and deliver very good depth.

Very good palate weight and lingering spice on the finish got me excited. The mid-palate is where the taste buds tingle, but I felt it flushed out just a little too quickly on the back palate. Still, the length lasts for well beyond a minute and is delicious and moreish.

The balance of fruit and oak was another attractive feature.

For $22 this is good buying.

Who: Evans & Tate http://www.mcwilliams.com.au/our-brands/evans-tate/
What: Chardonnay (13.5% alc)
Where: Margaret River
When: 2010
How: $22

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Bimbadgen Verdelho 2012

Coming from the Estate Range of wines, fresh tropical fruit salad and gentle passionfruit characters arouse the nose.

Verdelho can be very one dimensional at times offering clean and crisp tropical flavours. This wine has a little more personality which I liked, and doesn't slot into that realm.

The palate is coated well with fruit and it was the texture which appealed to me and added some interest. There's a dash of subtle spice to add to the mix which was welcome and a Hunter Verdelho trait. Good length which lasts thirty seconds.

Bimbadgen offers significant discounts for wine club members and this wine drops down to $16 which I think is a suitable price to pay. The $22 stated is stretching it a little too much.

An enjoyable drop all up. Calamari, chips and a beach set the scene beautifully with this drop. The back label suggests roast pork. I'd be keen to try that.

Who: Bimbadgen http://www.bimbadgen.com.au/
What: Verdelho (13% alc)
Where: Hunter Valley
When: 2011
How: $22

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