Clandestine Vineyards Hearts and Minds Cabernet Malbec 2021

 

Two single vineyards from different regions have been blended to deliver this powerful Cabernet Malbec from Clandestine Vineyards.

El Desperado Red Blend 2022

 

Known as the Red Blend, when you get a red wine that's as easy to throw back as this, it doesn't matter what the make up is. What a fabulous slurp this is from El Desperado.

El Desperado Tempranillo 2021

 

Dangerously smooth, this takes pizza and pasta night to another level. Throw me a burger to match though, but a ragu will be just fine. A fabulous Tempranillo from El Desperado that oozes value at 20 bucks.

El Desperado Rosé 2023

 

These El Desperado labels were made using AI. The detail is captivating I must say. The label on this Rosé depicts a warm summer's sunset and that is precisely when you should drink this.

El Desperado Pinot Grigio 2023

 

This $20 El Desperado Pinot Grigio really punches above its weight. It's a fabulous drink and top value. Go here for an inexpensive drop of pleasure.

El Desperado Sauvignon Blanc 2023

 

The new release wines El Desperado wines from the The Pawn Wine Company have hit the mark and then some. The value at the price point screams the word bargain. Here is a very good drink for Sauv Blanc lovers.

Clandestine Vineyards Pinot Gris 2023

 

Aromas explode from the glass with little field flowers and green apple taking the lead. This is a most enjoyable Pinot Gris from Clandestine Vineyards.

Clandestine Vineyards Prosecco Rosé 2023

 

Have this at a spring time long lunch with those that smile a lot. This is an easygoing fizz where the joy factor is high.

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 Rosé 2023

 

Brand new in the bottle, I was fortunate to be the first to check this out with winemaker Jean Francois prior to its release. Winning! This Rosé from Skimstone is an absolute cracker for 25 bucks. Go here.

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 Montepulciano 2022

 

I saw a couple of Montepulciano wines during my recent trip to Mudgee and this release from First Ridge Wines was one of the better examples. Bravo!

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 Fiano 2022

 

A very well-made Fiano from Mudgee's First Ridge Wines. It's layered with detail yet there is crowd pleasing appeal due to its easy going nature. Nicely done.

First Ridge Wines Vermentino 2022

 

Formerly Mudgee Ridge, the name changed to First Ridge Wines in 2014. With a focus on Italian varieties, the cellar door is a must-do when in the district for its chic and glorious aspect. This Vermentino is a great wine to kick back with.

Rosby Wines Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

 

Rosby Wines is a beautiful cellar door perched 590m above and tucked away in Mudgee's hills. Some suggest it is one of the best vineyards in the district. This is a great expression of Cabernet that has a long life ahead. It's very nicely done.