Flametree Pinot Rosé 2023

 

I like this Rosé purely for its simplicity. No fuss, it's cruisy drinking, and sometimes you need wines like that. Give it a run when you're worn down and feeling lazy.

Flametree Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2023

 

An easy-drinking Sauvignon Blanc Semillon blend (75/25) that will find favour among those seeking a simple yet tasty white wine.

Flametree Shiraz 2022

 

The Estate range of wines from Flametree is ever-reliable and this Shiraz 2022 is right in the slot. Well priced, I really enjoyed its shape and flow.

Flametree SRS Sauvignon Blanc 2022

 

One for Sauv Blanc lovers to embrace. This SRS from Flametree is very smart.

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.

Flametree SRS Wallcliffe Chardonnay 2022

 

Big love for this. The richness, the drive, the alluring appeal. Come at me.

Flametree SRS Wallcliffe Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Another excellent SRS Wallcliffe Cabernet from Flametree. If you're not familiar with the brand, I suggest you introduce yourself. The quality across the range is impressive. This is the flagship red and its class glistens.

Flametree Cabernet Merlot 2020

 

A fabulous Cabernet Merlot from Flametree that has so much to unpack.

Flametree Chardonnay 2022

 

Flametree produces quality wines and this Chardonnay is the best release in this range that I have seen for a number of years. Well priced at $30, you'll be able to track it down for a little less. And you should track it down, it's a great drink.

Ring Bolt Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

 

Classic Cabernet from the get-go. Sourced from a variety of sites around the Wilyabrup sub-region of Margaret River, this is super drinking for the asking price. Decant to drink now or hold, either way, you're winning.

So how does a $600 Yarra Valley Chardonnay stack up?

 

I was recently offered the opportunity to take a look at the debut release of Levantine Hill's Optume Chardonnay 2020. Rather than tasting it in isolation, a bracket of 2020 Chardonnays was assembled to see where things were at. And what a fabulous exercise it was! 

Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay 2020

 

The momentum is pulsating. It gathers you up as you're skating along with minimal friction and maximum flavour. What a Chardonnay we have here! 

Clandestine Vineyards Malbec 2021

 

Clandestine Vineyards source fruit from a range of districts. Here we have Malbec from Margaret River ready for that ragu or osso bucco. 

Juniper Conerstone Karridale Chardonnay 2020

 

One of Juniper's top Chardonnays, this 2020 is not quite at the great heights of the previous vintage. 

Clandestine Vineyards Break Free Petite Blancs 2022

 

Deadly smooth, this Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and Gewurztraminer blend slides through like silk. 

Driftwood Single Site Chardonnay 2021

 

Margaret River Chardonnay is awesome when done well and here we have another example. Interest awaits around every corner. This is an excellent wine. 

Driftwood Single Site Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

 

This is good. Really good! It has that yin and yang appeal as the fruit and savoury goodness playfully seek the upper hand. 

Juniper Cornerstone Karridale Chardonnay 2019

 

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

Juniper Cornerstone Wilyabrup Chardonnay 2020

 

An excitement machine with a starburst of energy, this Margaret River Chardonnay is flirtatious with a good whack of oak.

Driftwood Artifacts Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

 

A delight to drink, this is a rock solid example of Margaret River Cabernet.