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.

Castle Rock Estate A and W Riesling 2023

 

The four Castle Rock Estate Riesling releases are all different beasts. If you like your Riesling with a bit more drive and intensity, this one is for you.

Castle Rock Estate Diletti Riesling 2022

 

An excellent Riesling from Castle Rock Estate, it sees barrel fermentation and lees contact to build veneers of interest. There's some depth too, yet it maintains its vibrant persona. Yes!

Castle Rock Estate Porongurup Riesling 2023

 

This is great! The focus, the tension, it's a very tidy Riesling from Castle Rock Estate.

Castle Rock Estate Skywalk Riesling 2023

 

Not as expressive as years gone by, but it's still a very good Riesling.

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 Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

 

Right in the slot, there is a lot to like about the reliability of this Cabernet from Clandestine Vineyards.

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.

Castle Rock Estate A and W Pinot Noir 2022

 

Don't overlook the Great Southern region of Western Australia if you love your Pinot Noir - there are some gems to be uncovered. I was super impressed by the Castle Rock Estate Diletti and this A&W will be sure to sweep you off your feet too.

Castle Rock Estate Diletti Pinot Noir 2022

 

This Castle Rock Estate Diletti Pinot Noir is quite the step up from the entry level wine in the range of three. Sleek with polished edges, I found it irresistible.

Castle Rock Estate Pinot Noir 2022

 

Here we have a Pinot Noir from Western Australia's Great Southern region. It's a tidy drink with a respectable length.

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!