Skimstone Wines Cabernet Merlot 2021

Winemaker Jean Francois calls this Cabernet Merlot blend Mr Winter. Take a sip and it's easy to see why. It's a wine with a comforting embrace. From vines planted in the early 1990s, this is a great blend.

Skimstone Wines Barbera 2021

Mudgee is doing Italian varieties very well and this Barbera from Skimstone is another case in point.

Skimstone Wines Sangiovese 2021

Sangiovese done well is a classic pizza night wine and that is precisely what I thought when I put this to my lips. The wines in the Skimstone range are highly consistent and this release ticks the boxes.

Skimstone Wines Chardonnay 2021

 

The cellar door at Skimstone Wines provides a beautiful vista and laid-back experience. This Chardonnay is a fabulous wine worth tracking down for its terrific drive and balance.

First Ridge Wines Barbera 2021

 

This Barbera from First Ridge Wines is said to be their signature wine. Not too many Australian wineries hang their hat on Barbera, but isn't it good to be different! It matches the hype too - it's a fabulous drink.

First Ridge Wines Marco 2021

 

Marco is a 50/50 blend of Barbera and Sangiovese. This 2021 is the first release of the wine and it looks as though First Ridge might be onto something. Rich and generous, it's such a great drink.

First Ridge Wines Sangiovese 2021

 

The thing that strikes me about these First Ridge Wines is the consistency across the range. Well made with interest, they are reasonably priced too. This Sangiovese showcases all its varietal traits making it very enjoyable and then some.

First Ridge Wines Rosé 2021

 

This Rosé from First Ridge Wines calls for casual catch-ups, even a bag of sea salt chips as you watch the sun fall from the sky at day's end. It's a good drink for all occasions.

LMB Wines Chardonnay 2021

 

Like a generous Chardonnay? This release from LMB Wines will hit the mark.

Heslop Wines Mr Rascal Whole Bunch Shiraz 2021

 

Great to see some carbonic maceration used with this Shiraz. Some dislike it. Some think it is a fad. Some couldn't care less. I think it imparts some vitality. 

Heslop Wine Mr Rascal Shiraz Cabernet 2021

 

Dead smooth, there is plenty of interest in this Heslop Wines Shiraz Cabernet.

Slow Fox Wines Chardonnay 2021

 

2021 was also a wet and cold year in Mudgee but this Chardonnay bounds along with greater energy and presence than its 2022 sibling. 

Chateau Paul Mas Clos des Mûres 2021

 

This juggernaut of a bottle from France hits our shores once more. For all its hulking presence, it's only $25 but its weight certainly gives the impression that it is a lot more important than the price suggests.

Yalumba Tri-Centenary Grenache 2021

 

Planted in 1889, the Tri-Centenary block has been around for three centuries, hence the name. A Grenache like no other, the weight and complexity don't match the bright colour in the glass. This is an impressive wine.

Yalumba Bush Vine Grenache 2021

 

Ever reliable, this is a great Grenache to wrap your lips around. A glass of medium-bodied delish, some of the fruit comes from 100+ year old vines. Value much?

Nepenthe Apex Shiraz 2021

 

With silky feels and a delightful medium body presence, there is a lot to admire about the shape of this Nepenthe Apex Shiraz.

Yalumba GEN Organic Shiraz 2021

 

This GEN Shiraz is part of Yalumba's organic range. Sourced from the Riverland, it shows a little density and weight.

Soumah The Butcher Thomas Hendy Cut 2021

 

A blend of Yarra Valley finesse and the richness of Heathcote, this Soumah Thomas Hendy cut brings together Syrah, Cabernet and Nebbiolo. Despite being an odd bunch, the blend works extremely well.

Terre à Terre Crayères Vineyard Cabernet Franc 2021

 

I like this. A lot. It's gun barrel straight. What you see is what you get. Wrap your mouth around this very tidy Cabernet Franc.

Gundog Estate Hunter's Shiraz 2021

 

A quality and reliable Hunter Valley Shiraz that demonstrates all those beautiful medium-bodied things that make such wines from the region so appealing.