Gundog Estate Smoking Barrel Red 2021

 

A blend of Hunter Valley and Hilltops Shiraz, I'm unsure why it's called a "Red" when Shiraz is actually what it is. It's a great drink by the way, make no mistake. 

Gundog Estate Indomitus Albus 2022

 

Something a little different - Hunter Semillon meets Canberra Riesling. Bang! The first whiff slices through you. A smart wine this.

Scarborough Wines Keepers of the Flame Chardonnay 2021

 

Tasted at the Hunter Valley media famil back in May, this was one of the best Chardonnays in the line up showcasing the diversity of the region's quiet achiever. So underrated, Hunter Valley Chardonnay is a fabulous drink when done well. Get this on your radar.

Gundog Estate Indomitus Rutilus 2021

 

This is Matt Burton's take on Hunter River Burgundy, be it with a twist. Made with Hunter Shiraz but partnered with an out-of-towner - some Yarra Valley Pinot Noir from the George's Vineyard (20%). As Burton says, "This wine is less about place and more about variety and style." It's a fab wine, that's for sure.

Gundog Estate Hunter's Shiraz 2021

 

Line and length all the way and all day. A Glenn McGrath style Shiraz hurtling towards you. 

Gundog Estate The Chase Semillon 2022

 

Sizzling. Such a refreshing Semillon. There's a dab of texture to up the enjoyment factor too. You get the sense you are biting into a green apple. Yum!

Gundog Estate Off-Dry Semillon 2022

 

The last Off-Dry Semillon from Gundog Estate that came across the tasting bench was made with fruit from the Canberra district. This 2022 release heads back to its Hunter Valley roots.

Gundog Estate Wild Semillon 2022

 

Off-dry Semillon ready to be thrown at curry night or anything with a lick of spice for that matter.

Gundog Estate Rare Game Shiraz 2021

 

The Rare Game is winemaker Matt Burton's pursuit of Hunter Burgundy and his flagship Gundog Estate Shiraz. Made with fruit from the famed Ben Ean site, it sees French oak (25% new) for 16 months.

Gundog Estate Hunter's Semillon 2022

 

Arm yourself with this easy-drinking Hunter Semillon from Gundog Estate.

Usher Tinkler La Volpe Prosecco 2022

 

Spring is here and this is your weapon for afternoon refreshment. Hunter Valley Prosecco courtesy of Usher Tickler.

Comyns and Co Cabernet Shiraz 2021

 

A 60/40 Cabernet Shiraz blend from the Rothvale Vineyard.

Usher Tinkler Death By Semillon 2022

 

A cool label, a killer name plus some crafty winemaking and Usher Tinkler can't keep enough stock on the shelves. The demand for this Semillon is quite something. 

Carillion Fenestella Shiraz 2019

 

This is smart. I do like Hunter Shiraz. That medium body and sleek lines are just ace when done well. The cuttings from this block originally came from the famed Tallawanta vineyard with the roots now reaching deep into the soils of Mount View. 

Comyns and Co Mr Red 2021

 

The Shiraz and Viognier blend fad was red hot years ago and its appeal has simmered down somewhat. The odd example still bobs up. Here is a solid expression from the Hunter Valley's Comyns & Co.

Usher Tinkler Rosé 2022

 

With a copper and onion skin appearance, this super tasty dry Rosé from Usher Tinkler is a summer time barbecue dream boat.

Mount Pleasant Old Paddock and Old Hill Shiraz 2021

 

Awash with juicy raspberries, blueberries and red cherries, this is a joyous red that oozes charisma and class. 

Mount Pleasant Old Hill Pinot Noir 2021

 

Mount Pleasant = the oldest Pinot Noir vines in Australia. Another great piece of historic trivia from Australia's oldest continuous wine producing region, the Hunter Valley. This is an excellent drink. I can't fault it. More please!

Mount Pleasant Mountain D Shiraz 2021

 

Measured power from the Mountain D. The name has me thinking of a wrestler. Bring back the likes of the Big Boss Man and Andre The Giant. Here we have a big Hunter Valley Shiraz that still shows nimble feet and smooth lines. 

Note: this is not the correct bottle shot but you get the idea.

De Iuliis Aged Release Semillon 2017

 

Aged Semillon is a beautiful thing. It was great to see the 2016 and 2017 aged releases from De Iuliis side by side. I preferred this 2017 to the 2016.