Oakridge Original Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

 

Guns 'n' Roses could have sung "Lay me down on a bed of Cabernet" and this bottle could have been on the album cover for that matter. It's just glorious. Find a comfy chair and you navigate the rest. 

Huntington Estate Basket Pressed Shiraz 2019

 

Yet to be released, this Huntington Estate Basket Pressed Shiraz stood out at a recent lunch hosted by winemaker Tim Stevens. As with many of the reds from this stable, it will age gracefully although it's drinking superbly now.

Valentine Greco 2019

 

Dom Valentine is one of the Yarra Valley cool cats. Not afraid to push the boundaries, he's amassed quite the portfolio. This Greco is a thinker's wine. Smart gear, throw it at a degustation menu.

Pegasus Bay Prima Donna Pinot Noir 2019

 

The flagship wine for Pegasus Bay, this is just brilliant. Its class is evident when lined up alongside its sibling, albeit the latter was a year younger. There is more density and generosity yet there is no denying the sexy and lacy appeal. Boom!

Pegasus Bay Maestro 2019

 

The Maestro represents the best of the Pegasus Bay Bordeaux fruit. I was privileged to receive a pre-release sample and all I can suggest is that you get in the queue. There is a class about its swagger and I just want more.

Pegasus Bay Riesling 2019

 

There is a richness about this Riesling from New Zealand's Waipara region. It's not the fresh citrus type you may expect, nor is it trying to be. A considered and inviting release that keeps you coming back for more.

Pegasus Bay Virtuoso Chardonnay 2019

 

Easily one of the best Chardonnays you will find in New Zealand, the team at Pegasus Bay seemingly achieve supreme class almost effortlessly. Go here, please do.

Hesketh Twist of Fate Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

 

Coming from the Limestone Coast and peak Cabernet Sauvignon territory, this is a tidy wine for 15 bucks.

Tomich Icons of Woodside Q96 Chardonnay 2019

 

Rich, generous and wonderfully balanced, this is Tomich's top Chardonnay. 

Yelland and Papps Sparkling Vermentino 2019

 

Vermentino has me thinking of sunshine and seafood but this sparkling carries some weight given the style.

Pegasus Bay Chardonnay 2019

 

Like your Chardonnays generous? Here is your weapon! There is so much to grab onto here. Handfuls of interest beckon for your attention. 

Heggies Vineyard Estate Chardonnay 2019

 

I like this - a lot. If you enjoy oaky and flinty Chardys I suggest you wander over this way. This is a great drink with plenty in the bag to impress.

Yalumba Tri-Centenary Grenache 2019

 

I looked at this wine 12 months ago and it has softened up significantly since. Quite tense not long after release, this is a glorious and dangerously smooth expression of Grenache.

Jim Brand Domain Cabernets 2019

 

One of the very best red wines to have come across the tasting bench this year, this is all about clever blending, great fruit and engaging aromas. Made from the top 1% of fruit produced, quite simply, it's an absolutely superb blend. Stand and applaud.

The Blok Riesling 2019

 

The Blok Riesling has always impressed and this 2019 release is no different.

Juniper Cornerstone Karridale Chardonnay 2019

 

Elegant intensity. And elegance is certainly the word. A beautiful Chardonnay that glides through the mouth. 

Huntington Estate Cabernet Shiraz 2019

 

From a hot and dry year comes this Mudgee Cabernet Shiraz.

Angullong Crossing Reserve Harriet 2019

 

All the Italians swing into action here - Sangiovese, Sagrantino and Montepulciano come together in a blend that I can't help but keep going back for.

Yangarra Estate Ironheart Shiraz 2019

 

Power but with subtlety, generous fruit is laced with delicate spices. This is another brilliant Ironheart Shiraz. 

Carillion Felspars Shiraz 2019

 

Sourced from Carillion's Orange vineyard, this is a great drink.

Although this is the first time I've seen this wine come across the Qwine tasting bench, I was curious to find out it has skipped up $20 from the previous vintage. That's a fair hike but I'm sure there is a good reason for it. Reasons I'm not privy to...