18 August 2010

Vasse Felix Wins Trophy and Gold at Sheraton WA Wine Awards for ‘Best Individual Wine’ & ‘Best Chardonnay of Show’

Vasse Felix is very pleased to announce the 2008 Heytesbury Chardonnay has been awarded the ‘Sheraton Perth Hotel Chairman’s Award’ for ‘Best Individual Wine’ at the Sheraton WA Wine Awards, along with ‘Best Chardonnay of Show’.

In addition, the 2007 Heytesbury was the second highest pointed Red Blend of the Show. Click here to download press release.

13 July 2010

Yalumba Organic Shiraz is Jane Faulkner's Bargain Bin selection this week in The Age

Yalumba Organic Shiraz 2009 [South Australia]

"Apart from producing outstanding wines, family-owned and run Yalumba is committed to clonal diversity, promoting varieties suited to Aussie conditions and environmental issues. For this shiraz, it sources fruit from two South Australian vineyards – Loxton and McLaren Vale – both certified organic for the past 10 years. It is simple yet vibrant, loaded with spice and bright-red fruit. Medium-bodied with plush-ness from ripe tannins, it has plenty of cleansing acidity to cut through meat such as steak or pork chops. Made very much as a drink-now shiraz."

Jane Faulkner, The Age Epicure (Aus), 13 July 2010

June 2010

2010 Winemaker of the Year

Gourmet Traveller Wine nominates Vasse Felix Chief Winemaker, Virginia Willcock as a finalist for the 2010 Winemaker of the Year

For 13 years, Australia's leading wine magazine, Gourmet Traveller WINE has acknowledged the talents of over 100 Australian Winemakers, recognising their exceptional abilities and contribution to the Australian Wine Industry. We are proud to announce that the Vasse Felix Chief Winemaker, Virginia Willcock, has been added to this most prestigious list.

"Virginia's intuitive, upbeat nature and 'go for it' attitude are pure Western Australian ingredients. But it's her inquisitiveness, flair and imagination that singles her out as a transcendent winemaker."
Andrew Caillard, Master of Wine, and Gourmet Traveller 2010 Winemaker of the Year Judge

The winner will be announced on the 24th September in Melbourne.

We wish Virginia the best of luck!

Click here to download press release

June 2010

Philip Rich on Pol Roger - "rarely fails to impress"

"First made in 1975 in honour of the house's most famous customer, Pol's prestige cuvee rarely fails to impress. Made from pinot noir and chardonnay, this rich yet stylish wine needs at least another five years before it hits its straps."

Philip Rich, The Australian Financial Review Magazine, June 2010

June 2010

Hugh Johnson gets cozy with The Menzies on a winters night

"... But man cannot live by desserts alone, even in this weather. (It's snowing again, wetly, as I look out of the window.) Australia's big reds suggest themselves. A bottle of The Menzies, Yalumba's Coonawarra Cabernet, stepped up and volunteered one evening when duck was on the table. 2005 is very young by my standards - as you may have guessed. But balance can be achieved (indeed, must be achieved) early in life, and this was in perfect equilibrium between keen fruit, showing the peppery side of Cabernet, by no means overripe, and nutty warmth. The tannin was palpable (and appreciated by the duck), and the fruit was sweet and long. If The Menzies had time on its side, I feared my next Australian bottle might not."

Hugh Johnson, World of Fine Wine (UK), 2010

June 2010

Yalumba's 'great aussie blend' wines continue to lead the way

"Cabernet shiraz established Australia as a wine-drinking and wine-savvy nation. It is so much part of our winemaking tradition that some well-established producers who helped build that tradition are committed to always having a cabernet shiraz blend in their portfolios.

Yalumba has long been a champion of the blend. The Scribbler, The Signature and The Reserve all salute its cabernet shiraz tradition. The Signature has been made continuously since 1962, while The Reserve - produced only in exceptional vintages - proved a point on the international stage when the 1992 vintage was judged Best Red Wine (Five Years Or Older) two years in a row at London's International Wine & Spirit Competition."

Country Style Magazine (Aus), June 2010

1 June 2010

"Cigars all round" for Yalumba, winning WINE OF THE YEAR

The Big Red Wine Book 2010/2011 has named Yalumba The Cigar Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 its undisputed Wine of the Year. Authors Campbell Mattinson and Gary Walsh scored the wine 95 points, announcing this Coonawarra beauty had “cornered the holy trinity of quality, value and availability better than any other” wine in the 1000+ reviewed for the book.

Here's what they had to say:

“We tasted a lot of exceptional wines this year but this beauty from Yalumba’s Coonawarra vineyards cornered the holy trinity of quality, value and availability better than any other. Better still, it’s one of those rich, dark, robust reds that drinks like a charm from day one, but will mature and develop beautifully over the next handful of years. You have to love that. As we’re always saying, we’re wine buyers as much as, or more than, we are wine critics, and that this wine shouldn’t be hard to find is a fact not lost on us. No point having a wine of the year if no one can find it, or afford it. And you’re going to want to find some of this. It’s a champion red.

Review: - “Yalumba The Scribbler stole the show last year – this year it’s The Cigar Cabernet. This is a fantastic wine. If this is an indication of the reds to come from the 2008 Coonawarra vintage, we’re excited in advance. Really good Coonawarra cabernet, has a dark, inky depth – even at moderate alcohol levels. It tastes of blackberries and dried herbs, cedarwood and raspberries, though listing the components does nothing to describe the overall effect. There’s a ‘realness’ to this wine. A power. A churn of tannin and a lot of length. It’s enough to make you fall in love with Coonawarra all over again.”

POINTS: 95 VALUE: five drops DRINK: 2013-2020

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1 June 2010

Individual vineyard estates score top reviews in Big Red Wine Book

Campbell Mattinson and Gary Walsh have released the 2010 / 2011 issue of The Big Red Wine Book, featuring more than 1000+ red wine reviews and ratings. Here are some highlights on what Mattinson and Walsh have to say on the individual vineyard estates, represented by Samuel Smith & Son:

Dalrymple

Dalrymple Estate Pinot Noir 2007 [Pipers River]

“Beautiful structure. Satiny texture. Enough flavour, but not too much. This is a pinot noir with a lot going for it. It tastes of coffee grounds and blueberries, dark cherries and pine. It has foresty characters and quite a bit of sex appeal. Drinking it was a joy. Its pucker of tannin will hold it in good stead if you wish to pop it in the cellar too.”

POINTS: 93 VALUE: four drops DRINK: 2011-2015

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Dalrymple Pinot Noir 2008 [Tasmania]

“Ever so fresh – fragrant and fruity and inviting. Drink it and the fun rolls on. It tastes of boysenberries and Turkish delight, cedary oak and strawberries. There’s something quite mesmerising about it; you take a sniff and a swig, and suddenly you want to keep diving back for more. And more. There are some undergrowth-like flavours here too, adding extra complexity and personality. We love everything about this wine.”

POINTS: 93 VALUE: four drops DRINK: 2010-2014

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Running With Bulls

Running With Bulls Tempranillo 2008 [Barossa]

“The back label carries a bevvy of drivel but the wine, and indeed the look of the label, is excellent. Good stuff. Flavours of fresh strawberry jam, raw meat, spice and a little liquorice. It’s a bit Spanish in its delivery too – cheeky joven (youngster). Offers a good medium – to full-bodied mouthful of fruit and a round chewy texture with minimal oak influence. Drinks brilliantly. Highly recommended.”

POINTS: 91 VALUE: five drops DRINK: 2010-2015

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Nautilus Estate

Nautilus Pinot Noir 2008 [Marlborough]

“The perfect drinking pinot noir. It’s clearly a high quality pinot and yet it’s not so complex that it’s challenging to enjoy – this impresses you straight up, but then lets you just settle down and lap its luxury. It tastes of dark plums, cherries, cedary oak and minerals. It feels satiny on your tongue – and lingers beautifully once you’ve swallowed it. Joyous drinking.”

POINTS: 94 VALUE: four drops DRINK: 2010-2015

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Smith & Hooper

Smith & Hooper Cabernet Merlot 2008 [Wrattonbully]

"Authors Choice"

“Exceptionally classy packaging for a wine at its price. The wine delivers on the promise too. Thumbs up. Walsh calls this a ‘classy proper wine’, which sums it up nicely. It tastes of plums and various red berries, mint and cloves. There’s some appropriate support from vanilla-like oak too. Mid-weight and smooth, well structured and charming. Five-star value, in a canter.”

POINTS: 91 VALUE: five drops DRINK: 2010-2014

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Smith & Hooper Merlot 2008 [Wrattonbully]

“Medium bodied and fresh with soft tannins and plenty of come-hither charm. It’s hard to resist. It tastes of red fruits with a lick of vanilla and nutty oak. The balance is pretty good too though a second day’s tasting revealed a touch more alcohol heat than we’d like – which made us think it’ll be best as a youngster; not for cellaring.”

POINTS: 89 VALUE: four drops DRINK: 2010-2011

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Ringbolt

Ringbolt Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 [Margaret River]

“Last year we advised that you should buy the best piece of lamb you can afford, roast it up and serve it with this little beauty – though of course we were talking of the 2007. Same advice applies here, though. It tastes chocolately, gravelly, curranty and pure. It’s got class and grunt, is beautifully balanced and the flavours persist long after you’ve swallowed. Quality wine – fit for a fine Saturday night.”

POINTS: 90 VALUE: four drops DRINK: 2010-2015

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1 June 2010

Big Red Wine Book rates Yalumba in high 90's

Campbell Mattinson and Gary Walsh have released their 2010 / 2011 issue of The Big Red Wine Book, featuring more than 1000+ red wine reviews and ratings. Last year it was Yalumba The Scribbler that stole the show winning best red under $20 – this year it’s Yalumba The Cigar Cabernet Sauvignon under spotlights, winning Wine of the Year. But there is more to Yalumba’s folio of red wines, with some stand-out results across each teir. Here’s what Mattinson and Walsh have to say:

Yalumba The Octavius Old Vine Shiraz 2006 [Barossa]

“Good old oak-tavius – doesn’t quite live up to its nickname nowadays. It used to taste of oak, oak and more oak, but this release shows just how fine and balanced it’s become. You’d almost call this elegant – and medium-bodied. It tastes of boysenberries and tar, blackberries and cream. It’s juicy through the finish, carries highlights of dried herbs, and tastes very fresh for a four-year-old wine. Highly drinkable now, but with a long future ahead.”

POINTS: 94 VALUE: four drops DRINK: 2012-2021 RELEASED: September 2010

Yalumba The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2006 [Barossa]

“Yalumba Signature has a long lineage, and it almost always rewards those who have become loyal to it. Even better, it tends to drink well as both a young and mature wine. This release tastes of blackberry and vanillin, leather and mint. It’s seductively smooth, tannic but not excessively so, and long through the finish. Not a hair out of place.”

POINTS: 94 VALUE: five drops DRINK: 2012-2019 RELEASED: November 2010

Yalumba The Scribbler Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2008 [Barossa]

“Last year’s release was a huge hit in this book’s ‘best reds under $20 category’ (top place). It’s a newish wine to the Yalumba range, but it’s worth keeping an eye on. As a young wine it opens up quite charry and toasty so splash it round and give it some air if you’re going in early. It has lots of dusty, minty, aniseed fragrance over dark chocolate and mixed berries, and when it hits your mouth you’ll be greeted by a rugged and sandy, yet handsome, set of tannins. We’d call them rustic, hot vintage tannins, but they’re enjoyable nonetheless. It’s a bit of a rough diamond, but it is still a diamond.”

POINTS: 91 VALUE: four drops DRINK: 2011-2018

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Yalumba Patchwork Shiraz 2008 [Barossa]

“This is made from grapes grown on the Barossa Valley floor and from the Barossa Valley hills – effectively from the valley’s famous ‘patchwork’ of small vineyards. Big whack of flavour. Full-bodied, tarry, blackberried and intense. There’s nothing bright or complex about it, but if you want dark-fruit flavour, it delivers it in spades. We liked the 2007 release better, but we’d still be happy drinking this.”

POINTS: 89 VALUE: three drops DRINK: 2010-2013

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Yalumba Organic Shiraz 2009 [South Australia]

“Good red wine. Not big or impressive, but ripe and flavoursome, black-fruited and well weighted. There are no real signs of oak flavour, it just tastes like a big handful of squished dark berries, fresh and pure. It’s a great style of wine.”

POINTS: 90 VALUE: five drops DRINK: 2010-2014

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Yalumba Organic Shiraz 2008 [South Australia]

“It needs some air but it then quaffs very nicely. Three cheers for Yalumba – they’ve delivered exactly what (a segment of) the market wants. Cherries and blackberries with a lick of spice. No real oak to speak of and medium-bodied at its deepest point. Grown smart and tastes smart. You feel good drinking it.”

POINTS: 88 VALUE: five drops DRINK: 2010-2011

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June 2010

Matt Skinner cracks a bottle of Tempranillo by Running with Bulls

Running With Bulls Tempranillo 2008 [Barossa]

"This cracking example of the Spanish tempranillo wine, from South Australia's Barossa Valley, is deliciously soft and chewy with a core of pure black cherry, raspberry, tobacco leaf and spice. Drink with lamb shank stew."

Matt Skinner, BBC Australian Good Food (Aus), June 2010

June 2010

Matt Skinner sniffs out Smith & Hooper Merlot

Smith & Hooper Merlot 2008 [Wrattonbully]

"South Australia's Wrattonbully is a popular place to grow grapes, particularly red varieties. This merlot smells of violets, plums and raspberries. Drink with Baked beans & pork belly."

Matt Skinner, BBC Australian Good Food (Aus), June 2010

April 2010

“Australia’s Icon Eden Valley Vineyard, Pewsey Vale, continues to capture the palates of Australia’s wine press”

Pewsey Vale The Contours Riesling 2004 [Eden Valley]

"One of the best-value aged released Riesling's. A gorgeous mix of complex toasty notes and texture plus refreshing lime and minerally acidity with distinct Eden Valley floral aromas and a super-fine finish. Ageing slowly and gracefully under its screw cap."

Jane Faulkner, Sydney Morning Herald - Spectrum (Aus), 2-4 April 2010

"Pewsey Vale's Contours bottle-aged riesling is always a great bargain. Not many absolute classics sell for less than $30 but this Eden Valley riesling is one of them. It has a youthful colour and very complex nose, with light buttered-toasty notes and aromas of lime, resin and minerals. It tastes complete and smooth, with a fascinating interplay of riesling fruit freshness and toasty development. The finish is fine and lingering. A great argument for riesling's age worthiness under screw cap."

Ralph Kyte-Powell, The Age Epicure (Aus), 9 March 2010

Pewsey Vale Prima Riesling 2009 [Eden Valley]

Rated 88+ points - "Love the packaging, and loved the inaugural vintage (2007), although I’ve not been so keen on the vintages that followed. I tasted this alongside some German and Central Otago numbers and it looked deficient in length, but in particular lacked that tension between acidity and sweetness that’s so vital when making an off-dry style. Others may well disagree…. It smells of limes and kaffir lime leaf, a light petrol/mineral smell and spice - all excellent and beguiling. It hits the mouth with a blast of limey flavour and acidity which is left hanging in the air due to insufficient sweetness to smooth it out. Finishes short with squeezed lime acidity and some petrolly flavours. It’s not a bad wine by any means, but it’s a half way house stylistically - I’d rather have dry and classic, or the tension between sugar and acid. May very well improve with some bottle age."

Gary Walsh, www.winefront.com.au, March 2010

Pewsey Vale Riesling 2009 [Eden Valley]

"Riesling is undiscovered, underrated and, unlike more popular varieties, you can get a top-notch bottle and still have change from a $20 note. Try Pewsey Vale Eden Valley Riesling 2009."

Greg Duncan Powell, Grazia Magazine, 8 March 2010

Pewsey Vale Gewurztraminer 2009 [Eden Valley]

"I like a good GT but they are pretty hard to find, and on first sniff and taste of this one, thought I was onto a ripper…and then? Has the classic fragrance of musk, rose, lychee and spice. Spot on. Medium weight with clean acid balance, mildly sweet and spicy fruit with a lightly phenolic texture. All excellent, although there’s an undercurrent of alcohol warmth (and sweetness) that pulls it off course, especially on the finish. A pretty good show all up though, nonetheless."

Gary Walsh, www.winefront.com.au, February 2010

April 2010

"Pol Roger produces one of the finest non-vintages" as reviewed in The Age A2

Pol Roger Brut NV

"Pol Roger produces one of the finest non-vintages and it's a sheer delight to drink. It's full of vanilla nougat and honeyed brioche notes, grilled nuts with a citrus underlay, very fine persistent bead that bursts on to the palate, leaving a creamy mousse yet tangy, fresh finish. An exceptionally fine and defined wine that's a gorgeous pick-me-up."

Jane Faulkner, The Saturday Age - A2 & Sydney Morning Herald - Spectrum (Aus), 17 April 2010

April/May 2010

Yalumba Vermentino "best I've seen in Australia" writes Peter Forrestal for Gourmet Traveller WINE

Yalumba Vermentino 2009 [Langhorne Creek]

"Vermentino is planted in Corsica, the Languedoc-Roussillon, in Liguria, and on the Tuscan coast, although the most important source for the Italian tourist market is Sardinia. With their vibrant fruitiness and zesty, cleansing acidity, the early-picked styles are well suited to the climate and way of life. Sourced from Langhorne Creek, this is the best vermentino I've seen from Australia. It has subtle dried herbs and lavender aromas, delicate fruit flavours, a vibrant, tangy mouthfeel, finishing with zesty acidity."

Peter Forrestal, Gourmet Traveller WINE (Aus), April/May 2010

April 2010

Finesse of chilly Tassie fruit provides sophistication and structure ...
Tyson Stelzer reviews Jansz in WINE100

Jansz Tasmania Premium Non Vintage Rosé

93 points - "Gorgeous and sophisticated, the allure of this wine is as much what it is not as what it is. A sparkling rose of such restraint is rare at this price. Subtle strawberry hull and lemon blossom flavours glide into a long finish, accented by fine minerality."

Jansz Tasmania Late Disgorged Premium Cuvée 2002

94 points - "An outstanding late disgorged style, showcasing the lemon zest finesse of chilly Tassie fruit. Seven years on lees has developed rich brioche and marzipan aromas as well as nutmeg notes that linger on the finish. Fine, lingering minerality leaves it finishing structured and fresh."

Tyson Stelzer, Wine100 (Aus), April 2010

20 March 2010

Jansz Tasmania defines Australian sparkling wine...Read recent reviews by Jane Faulkner

Jansz Tasmania Late Disgorged Premium Cuvée 2002

"The best fruit for Australian Sparkling wine tends to be from Tasmania, one reason why this '02 looks so good. On the flavour side, it's complex, rich and textured. There's plenty of lemon zest and nougat characters alongside fine bead."

Jane Faulkner, The Sydney Morning Herald - Spectrum (Aus), 13-14 March 2010

Jansz Tasmania Premium Vintage Rosé 2006

"Made from pinot noir, fermented in old French oak with three years spent on its lees makes this rose rather special and complex. It entices first with its pale onion skin/salmon colour, then more with its fine bead though the mousse dissipates quickly. The palate is alive with fresh delicate raspberry fruit; some toasty notes, savoury and a hint of spice. Still quite tight with fine acid and length. Rather understated and refined."

Jane Faulkner, The Age - A2 (Aus), 9 March 2010

9 March 2010

Smith & Hooper Merlot is a "genuine...more serious" wine, writes Tony Love

Smith & Hooper Merlot 2008 [Wrattonbully]

"The story: This tiny Limestone Coast region lying between the Coonawarra and Padthaway shows a real affinity with this variety, and at this price is a very smart step up from many of the lighter weight, warmer district cheapis on the market.The flavour: There's a genuine depth of blue and purple berry flavour, marrying gently hand-led oak into a smart, nicely weighted, more serious style."

Tony Love, The Daily Telegraph - Taste (Aus), 9 March 2010

March 2010

Pewsey Vale Tops the Riesling Ranks

Pewsey Vale Eden Valley Riesling 2009

"If Pewsey has been a bit beneath you - get over it. Frequently in recent years a Pewsey Vale Riesling has been a contender for best of vintage. Despite always being at least very good, they've also perhaps been unfashionable, regarded as too easy to find or heavily discounted. Make no mistake; this is one of the best of its type in a likely great vintage. All the classic Eden hallmarks of deep lemon flower and leaf and early signs of honey spice are there and it has that rare and thrilling gift of concentration. Top Riesling doesn't always have to have this little (big) bonus, but when it does you're looking at a combo of immediate enjoyment and an easy 20 year cellaring life. I've got mine."

David Ridge, The Adelaide Review (Aus), March 2010

2 March 2010

Huon Hooke's Sparkling Wine of the Week

Jansz Tasmania Premium Cuvée Non Vintage

"The Jansz non-vintage is a wine that offers affordable, serious sparkling wine character. It combines freshness with complexity. Floral, lightly spicy aromas lead into a fine, lively palate with lemon/citrus and meringue flavours. 90/100."

Huon Hooke, Sydney Morning Herald - Good Living (Aus), 2 March 2010

March 2010

Max Allen's Top Drop is Heggies Top Rot

Heggies Vineyard Reserve 242 Botrytis Riesling 2007 [Eden Valley]

"The 242 refers to the sweetness of this unctuous sticky: almost a quarter of the volume is sugar, thanks to the insanely ripe and shrivelled grapes used to make it."

Max Allen, Gourmet Traveller Magazine (Aus), March 2010

28 February 2010

Matt Skinner Recommends...

Heggies Vineyard Eden Valley Chardonnay 2008

"From the cool of the Adelaide Hills, this cracking chardonnay features intense smells of nectarine, grapefruit and nicely handeled savoury oak on the nose, while a mineral-textured mouthful of wine steadily builds towards an incredibly long, dry and oh-so-stylish end. Drink it with smoked trout and lentil salad."

Matt Skinner, The Sun-Herald Sunday Life Magazine (Aus), 28 February 2010

16 February 2010

Running with Bulls leads the Aussie Tempranillo Pack!

Running with Bulls Tempranillo 2008 [Barossa]

"Thanks to places such as Bar Lourinha and MoVida pouring great wines by the glass, Spanish tempranillo has become the red of choice. But Australian examples are still grappling with it stylistically. Not Yalumba though, with its Running with Bulls Tempranillo 2008 - it's a beauty. The wine is full of tangy, bright-red fruits, with an appealing maraschino-cherry note and mulberries, too. But it's essentially a savoury-spicy wine with plush, ripe tannins, cleansing acidity and terrific length. Great with tapas, roast lamb or ragu-style dishes."

Jane Faulkner, The Age 'Epicure' (Aus), 16 February 2010

3 February 2010

Trio of riesling's from Pewsey Vale are "...glorious, pure, timeless"

Pewsey Vale Riesling 2009 [Eden Valley]

"The base wine in the range the '09 vintage is a simply glorious wine, made in relatively high volume and often available at well under the $20 mark, on special. When it is, it has to be one of the best wine buys in the world for quality and value. There's talc and stone flint on the nose. The palate is pure and crisp, with a delicious citrus body."

Pewsey Vale Prima Riesling 2009 [Eden Valley]

"If I could drink one wine for the rest of the summer, the '09 Pewsey Vale Prima Riesling would be it. With a little residual sweetness, it's pure, driven acidity mops up any cloying characters instantly. I can't wait until the next time Thai is on the menu. I already know what I'll be drinking.Go on, it's time to embrace your inner sweet tooth."

Pewsey Vale The Contours Riesling 2004 [Eden Valley]

"The Contours riesling must be a hard wine to release. In its youth, it's shy, a difficult proposition to introduce to the world. In adolescence, it's gangly and needs time to grow up. Persevere. The bones are good and with a few more years in the cellar, it will graduate summa cum laude. It's a special vineyard and its wines deserve a place in any good collection."

Fergus McGhie, Canberra Times - food & wine (Aus), 3 February 2010

2 February 2010

Heggies Botrytis 2007 - Good Living's Best Sticky of the Week

96/100 points"A magical wine. Pristine, clean, intense riesling varietal aromas with good botrytis complexity; deliciously aromatic. Fully sweet, concentrated flavour, lively and rich but also poised as a ballerina. Absolutely beautiful. Now to five or six years."

Huon Hooke, Sydney Morning Herald - Good Living (Aus), 2 February 2010

February 2010

"Yalumba is first class!" writes Campbell Mattinson

"It's hard to know where to start with the Yalumba range at the moment; it may well be that the portfolio has never tasted better. Value, quality, class, organics, single vineyards, old vines, new varieties, old varieties, history, whites, reds, fortifieds - you name it, Yalumba is a first-class exponent of it... Talk about the cup runneth over!"

Campbell Mattinson, Gourmet Traveller WINE (Aus), February/March 2010

February 2010

Running with Bulls "a knock out"

Running With Bulls Tempranillo 2008 [Barossa]

"... the 2008 Running With Bulls Tempranillo isn't just good, it's a poster child of just how far Australian wine has come. Aussie alternative varieties are good now. Indeed a wine as impressive, different, characterful and affordable as this knocks most of the preconceptions about Australian wine for six. It's low in oak, tastes spicy and meaty with licorice notes, carries fresh acidity and drinks as well at the dinner table as it does on its own. It's also a respectable 13.5 per cent alcohol. If you can't tell already, I reckon it's a steal."

Campbell Mattinson, Gourmet Traveller WINE (Aus), February/March 2010

January 2010

Hail Australia's "Top of the Rots"

Find out what leading wine critic Nick Stock has to say about Heggies Reserve 242 across his breadth of wine columns in Australia's leading publications.

Heggies Vineyard Reserve '242' Botrytis Riesling 2007 [Eden Valley]

98 points - "It's hard to overstate just how great this wine is. It has striking quartzy Eden terroir, fragrant citrus and floral nuances; cumquat, lime peel and lemons, dried spiced pear and super-clean apricot botrytis nuances. The palate has a smooth rich pillowy texture, spreading lime marmalade flavour deep through a pristine finish."

Nick Stock, WINE100 magazine (Aus), January 2010

South Australia's Finest Wines - "Quite simply has to be tasted to be believed - this is one of the greatest sweet wines Australia has produced!The unmistakable quartz Eden Valley soils are in full voice, elevating Riesling's fragrance and packing the palate with all manner of rich botrytised citrus flavours - quenching acidity lands it right on point."

Nick Stock, Sumptuous (Aus), December/January 2010

98 points / five stars - “I remember hearing about this wine whilst it was still in tank when the regular ’07 Heggies Botrytis Riesling took out this award in the 2009 guide. This shows just how precious our greatest vineyards are – the Heggies vineyard is true grand cru material! This is a reserve parcel that was harvested with never-before-seen levels of sugar. The first impression is that of terroir – striking quartz minerals of the high Eden Valley amid fragrant citrus and floral nuances; cumquat, lime peel and lemons, some dried spiced pear and immaculately clean apricot botrytis nuances. Superb, breezy freshness lifts across the top. The perfectly formed palate has smooth, rich, pillowy texture, spreading lime marmalade flavour deep through a pristine finish. Its immense sweetness is countered with discreet, ripe acidity, and the net result is a sensual joyride to sweet wine nirvana."

Nick Stock, The Penguin Good Australian Wine Guide 2010

30 January 2010

Pewsey Vale and Heggies Vineyard are "TOP of the Valley"

'THE Pewsey Vale and Heggies vineyards in South Australia's picturesque Eden Valley have allowed the famous Hill Smith family to create a range of distinctive wine styles that are the envy of our top-echelon producers.

The Hill Smiths are best known as the founders of Yalumba, the Angaston-headquartered winery that has been in the family's hands since 1849.

The high-elevation Pewsey Vale vineyard was planted by Englishman Joseph Gilbert two years earlier, making it one of the nation's most treasured viticultural holdings, notably from a riesling perspective.

The Hill Smiths acquired Pewsey Vale in 1961 and immediately replanted it with riesling, laying the groundwork for a magical varietal future.

With the extremely talented Louisa Rose calling the shots for the past 14 years, the Pewsey Vale brand continues to command immense standing in super-premium riesling ranks.

The 2009 Pewsey Vale Riesling ($22) delivers a bountiful amalgam of ripe, intense, lingering lime-lemon flavours.

It ranks with the finest in a classic lineage of vintages and underlines the great synergy existing between Eden Valley, particularly Pewsey Vale, and riesling.

Pinot gris is another aromatic variety well suited to the Pewsey Vale terroir.

The 2009 vintage ($24) features spicy apple-pear flavours with a long, palate-refreshing finish. Louisa Rose has nailed it with this wine as well.

Although the Heggies vineyard, established by the Hill Smith family in 1971, is renowned for its rieslings, winemaker Peter Gambetta's brief also extends to chardonnay and merlot.

The 2007 Heggies Reserve Chardonnay ($39) and 2008 Heggies Chardonnay ($26) provide two classic variations in style.

The vineyards' very finest barrels of chardonnay are blended to create the 2007 Reserve, while the 2008 Heggies also receives top treatment from Gambetta to ensure it lives up to the brand's flagship status.

The 2007 Heggies Merlot ($28) is another fine bottling, with excellent fruit delivery and balance.

John Fordham, The Sunday Telegraph /

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/sunday-telegraph/insider

(Aus), 30 January 2010

28 January 2010

Yalumba accepts New World Winery of the Year award from Wine Enthusiast

In a timely coincidence with Australia Day, Yalumba cemented Australia’s position at the forefront of New World winemaking by being honoured as Wine Enthusiast (US) magazine’s New World Winery of the Year on January 25, 2010.

Yalumba proprietor and vigneron Robert Hill Smith was in New York to accept the award on behalf of Yalumba at the magazine’s Wine Star Awards evening, held at the New York Public Library, New York City.

“After the spate of negative news stories around Australian wine in recent times, this is an opportunity for me to acknowledge that Australia is indeed leading the New World of winemaking. For Yalumba, this recognition follows a stellar year in all senses and appropriately celebrates our 160th year as Australia’s oldest family-owned winery.” -- Robert Hill Smith

Now in its 10th year, the Wine Star Awards acknowledges excellence across all areas of the international wine and spirits industry. For 2009 there were 50 nominees with five companies in each of the ten award categories. Winners were selected for their outstanding contribution to the world of wine and spirits.
 
“Yalumba has become one of the country’s most progressive and successful wine producers. For their forward-thinking, innovative leadership in the Australian wine industry and an unflagging commitment to quality and family ownership, Yalumba is Wine Enthusiast’s New World Winery of the Year.” -- Wine Enthusiast

Other wineries nominated in the New World Winery category, were d'Arenberg (Australia), Bodega Catena Zapata (Argentina), Jackson-Triggs Vintners (Canada), and Vina San Pedro -VSPT (Chile).

View photos from the evening.

14 January 2010

"Beautifully balanced and poised" - Smith & Hooper Wrattonbully

Smith & Hooper Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2008 [Wrattonbully]

"Beautifully balanced and poised blend that brings out some delicious sweet blackcurrant and spicy plum characters on the palate. Has a medium-weight richness with supple fine ripe tannins in support. Good wine in the medium term."

Smith & Hooper Merlot 2008 [Wrattonbully]

"A medium-bodied merlot from the Wrattonbully region of South Australia.Seamless silky smooth palate with light cedar and subtle fruit-cake plum pudding characters. It's a wine ideal in the short term."

Ray Jordan, The West Australian Fresh (Aus), 14 January 2010

January 2010

Wine critics admiration for Yalumba Vermentino Australia wide!

Yalumba Vermentino 2009 [Langhorne Creek]

“This white grape is grown across the Mediterranean – and now in Langhorne Creek. It not only copes well in hot weather (it sailed through the blistering conditions of late January and early February 2009 in south-eastern Australia) but produces crisp, citrusy, refreshingly moderate (12 per cent alcohol) summer seafood wine to boot.”

Max Allen, Gourmet Traveller Magazine (Aus), February 2010

"Vermentino produces mouth-watering whites that are perfect with fresh salads. This example from Langhorne Creek is compact and subdued with smells of green herb, lemon rind and jasmine. Bright citrus-like fruit leads the charge in your mouth, while racy acidity keeps things on track through to a dry, savoury finish."

Matt Skinner, The Sun-Herald Sunday Life Magazine & The Sunday Age Sunday (Aus), 31 January 2010

"On more than one occasion, I have admitted all in print. I'm a vermentino fancier. I fell under the sway of this Sardinian grape variety, as you would, on a working trip to Italy. I loved its refreshing zesty acidity and crisp, clean, savoury lines. It just seemed to fit with the food and lifestyle of Italy. I should say that as I moved further into Italy's northern region, I started to find more attraction in some of the varieties that are native to those areas and where cool climate whites are all the rage. I do remember thinking - three or four years ago - that vermentino would be ideally suited to some of Australia's warmer regions, more so than varieties that have traditionally been planted there. So far, I've like the Brown Brothers Vermentino and enjoyed the Chalmers version from the Murray Darling. But I've admired none more than this fresh, bright summery number from Yalumba. Wonderfully sparse yet classy packaging too. The 2009 Yalumba Vermentino is pretty subtle and delicate with dried herb and lavender aromas and flavours, is bright, freshing and pure, has an attractive tangy mouthfeel and crisp cleansing acidity. Rating: Bloody Good."

Peter Forrestal, www.quaff.com.au (Aus), January 2010

89 points

"A crisp, lively, dry white for summer quaffing, this wine shows lovely restraint for its warm climate Langhorne Creek orgins. Its subtle flavours of mint leaf and pear make it the perfect thing to serve with virtually anything cold and fresh."

Tyson Stelzer, WINE100 Magazine (Aus), January 2010

Read more about Vermentino, including winemaker Louisa Rose's vintage notes and more press

10 January 2010

New release Heggies Reserve Chardonnay 07 "refined and lovely - 93 points"

"Subtle wine with stone fruit, pear and a little citrus. Touch of matchstick and smooth almond paste. It's gentle and soft in the mouth with fine unobtrusive acidity and nutty spicy oak, a textural wine rather than an acid driven one. Has good length but could do with a bit more of a push through the finish... I think it's pretty refined and lovely."

Gary Walsh, www.winefront.com.au (Aus), 10 January 2010

10 January 2010

Pewsey Vale Riesling 09 - "Good now. Good later. Enough said."

94 points

"Pretty bath talc, vanilla and lime with some green apple and flinty stony bits. It's a gentle wine that feels natural and unforced with plenty of fruity flavour, gentle but bright acidity and excellent length of flavour. Good now. Good later. Enough said."

Gary Walsh, www.winefront.com.au (Aus), 10 January 2010

January 2010

Tony Love 'steps into the bull ring' and harnesses an exciting new tempranillo

Running With Bulls Tempranillo 2008 [Barossa]

"Highly awarded at the Royal Adelaide Wine Show, this Spanish-origin red shows a smoke, leather and tobacco-leaf range of aromas with crunchy fresh red berry fruit and minimal oak interference. For those who haven't quite stepped into the bull ring with this variety, check it out. It's light-hearted, medium-bodied beauty suited to tomato and spiced tapas-like edibles."

Tony Love, The Advertiser - Indulge (Aus), January 2010

8 December 2009

Smith & Hooper is "poised and elegant" and Epicure's "Wine of the Week"

Smith & Hooper Wrattonbully Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2008

"Yalumba winery celebrated its 160th anniversary this year and it's been under the same family ownership all those years. The boss, fifth-generation wine man Robert Hill Smith, has a policy of over-delivering in value terms, putting his wines among Australia's most reliable.

Smith & Hooper is an associated Hill Smith family enterprise, based at Wrattonbully on the Limestone Coast of southern South Australia. This bargain-priced cabernet blend has a charming nose of blackcurrants with light floral and herb touches and a balanced, earthy seasoning of lightly toasty oak. Poised and elegant in the mouth, it has an even, silky texture and the fresh, intense flavour is long lasting and aromatic. Tannins are dry, fine and well integrated."

Ralph Kyte-Powell, Uncorked - Epicure, The Age (Aus), 8 December 2009

December/January 2010

Nick Stock visits Pol Roger for the annual Gourmet Traveller WINE magazine Champagne tasting

Pol Roger Blanc de Chardonnay Vintage 1999

"This combines Pol's generous house style with chardonnay's restraint; light toast, dried citrus zest, nuts and biscuits all smell delicious. Chalky and citrus flavour; pristine lemon zest, handsome depth and drive, concentrated and fine."

Pol Roger Brut NV

"A Champagne house with a strong attachment to the English market, they honoured the late Sir Winston Churchill on his passing in 1975, dedicating their flagship cuvee to him. The non-vintage wine has a strong pinot meuniere component and it always delivers richness and toasty, savoury complexity - plenty of Champagne for the money. The Blanc de Blancs has made a strong impression for its zesty power and precision in recent vintages.

(The Pol Roger Brut NV) ... is in terrific shape; complete, rich and compelling freshness. The three-way blend delivers a complex toast and berry impression; the palate has plenty of rich red fruit flavour, finishing with chalky, dry resolve."

Pol Roger Brut Vintage 1999

"Classic richness and toasty notes just dominated by pinot noir's spice and savoury aromas. The palate has yellow fruit flavours, fresh acid attack and a finely beaded texture."

Nick Stock, Gourmet Traveller WINE (Aus), December/January 2010

1 December 2009

Pol Roger "one of the finest" writes Jane Faulkner in The Age Epicure

Pol Roger Brut NV

"As we're heading into the festive season and a month of celebrations, champagne is often the wine of choice. There are plenty around at various price and quality levels.

While vintage champagnes are often far superior on so many levels - and more expensive - Pol Roger's non-vintage is one of the finest in that category. A stylish champagne from a top producer, it's incredibly fresh and lively with loads of fine bead, definately on the citrus spectrum, with a hint of toasty brioche complexity and creaminess. It has a fabulous aperitif style and really, who needs an excuse to drink a glass? It's the perfect pick-me-up." Click here to download presenter.

Jane Faulkner, The Age - Epicure, 1 December 2009

December 2009

Leading wine-man, Peter Bourne, tastes Pol Roger in readiness for Christmas

Pol Roger Blanc de Chardonnay Vintage 1999

"Pol's White Foil non-vintage is soft, creamy-styled Champagne, while its blanc de blancs is exactly the reverse. It's tightly coiled and intensely flavoured and, after a decade, still elegant and graceful with lots of candied peel and toasted panettone aromas and a rich, intense, fulfilling palate."

Peter Bourne, SMH The (Sydney) Magazine (Aus), December 2009

4-6 December 2009

“Yalumba has released a stunning pair of Coonawarra cabs from 2006" writes Tim White

Yalumba The Cigar Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

95 points

"This smells deep and pure. Fruitcake: so deep. Gets better and better in the glass. Attacks deep and dark and builds serious tannins - dry and firm, hot stones. The fruit saturates the tongue and tannins bind it up. Still so young."

Triple Trophy Winner at Australian Limestone Coast Wine Show - Best of Show, Best Wine of Show and Best Cabernet Sauvignon of Show

Yalumba The Menzies Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

95 points

"This is serious: coal dust and fruitcake - emphatic cabernet sauvignon. Flake tobacco too. Has plenty of deep fruitcake and chocolate in the mouth, and sparkly currants. Slides across the tongue while the tannins are long, firm, mouth-watering."

Tim White, The Australian Financial Review, 4-6 December 2009

25 November 2009

Watch Ray Jordan's interview with Vasse Felix

17 November 2009

“Pablo Picasso once said : “It takes a long time to grow young”.

For 160 years, Yalumba has done just that, and in doing so remain Australia’s oldest family-owned wine company, celebrating 160 years of family winemaking, November 17, 2009.

Yalumba’s 160 years of family ownership is an unprecedented milestone in the Australian wine industry. Established in 1849, Yalumba remains independent and progressive across six generations of the Hill Smith family, which has contributed many a great character and winemaking achievement for the Australian wine industry. Read about Yalumba’s history and the Hill Smith Family

14-15 November 2009

Stand-Out Scores in Halliday’s TOP100 Australian wines

James Halliday has released his TOP100 Australian Wines for 2009, with Yalumba, Jansz Tasmania, Pewsey Vale and Heggies Vineyard topping their categories. Read more:

Yalumba The Virgilius Viognier 2008 [Eden Valley]

96 points

“The Virgilius outguns every other viognier in Australia. The handpicked grapes are whole-bunch pressed direct to barrel (pre-used) and lees-stirred for 11 months. The most remarkable feature is its depth of white peach and apricot flavour, achieved without the phenolics which can so easily destroy the finish of this variety.” Drink: to 2011 with free-range chicken.

Jansz Tasmania Premium Cuvée NV [Tasmania]

94 points

“A blend of several vintages of individual batches from the vineyard sites specifically designated to growing grapes for sparkling wine for this sparkling wine-only producer. The Cuvée is chardonnay-dominant, backed up with pinot noir. Full yellow-gold, with some cashew aromas, followed by an intense mix of stone fruit, citrus and strawberries set in a creamy mid-palate, the citrus-toned finish clean and fresh.”

Pewsey Vale The Contours Riesling 2004 [Eden Valley]

96 points

“The grapes come from the oldest vines on the vineyard, planted in 1962. Bright straw-green; intense lime and apple aromas showing the first signs of developing some toasty notes, the palate brilliantly fresh, still with a hint of CO2; citrus, spice and minerally acidity run through the lingering finish.” Drink: 2019 with cold smoked salmon.

Heggies Vineyard Riesling 2009 [Eden Valley]

95 points

“Owned by the Hill Smith family since 1971, Heggies has been one of the most consistent producers of high-quality riesling. An expressive bouquet with ripe blossom aromas leads into a palate that gathers pace as it streams to a vital and intense conclusion, lime/citrus flavours sustained by excellent acidity.” Drink: to 2019 with grilling King George whiting

James Halliday's Top 100 Wines, The Weekend Australian, 14-15 November 2009

7 November 2009

Running with Bulls Tempranillo is "a fabulous drink" says Jane Faulkner in Epicure

"An outstanding Australian tempranillo, with its core of tangy fruit, that distinct maraschino cherry note and mulberries but not a fruit bomb - hallelujah! With a whiff of dried Mediterranean herbs, savoury with soft, plush, sweetish tannins tempered by tangy acidity and terrific length; a fabulous drink."

Jane Faulkner, The Age Epicure (Aus)

27 October 2009

Running with Bulls "laudable for both its style and execution"

90 points - "Love the packaging, the delivery and the wine. Good stuff. Fresh, strawberry jam, raw meat, spice and a little liquorice. It's a bit Spanish in its delivery too. Cheeky joven. Offers a good medium to full bodied mouthful of fruit and a round chewy texture with minimal oak influence (and it's mainly Hungarian so your nipples may well explode with delight). Drinks brilliantly and is entirely laudable for both its style and execution. Highly recommended."

Gary Walsh, www.winefront.com.au

27 October 2009

Yalumba announced Winery of the Year

Nick Stock, author of The Penguin Good Australian Wine Guide, has unveiled Yalumba as their Winery of the Year in the 2010 edition, out now.

“Awarded for all-round performance, Yalumba is a winery that has proved it can succeed in virtually any style and price point with an across-the-board track record that is the envy of the entire industry. Its influence on the position of Australian wine internationally is one to be closely watched in the year ahead.”

Nick Stock is an award-winning journalist, wine judge, one of Australia’s most prolific wine critiques and author of The Penguin Good Australian Wine Guide – Australia’s most up-to-date wine guide featuring 1200+ reviews.

20 October 2009

Yalumba Scholarship 2010

LONDON, 20th October 2009

The Institute of Masters of Wine and Yalumba, Australia's oldest family-owned winery, are delighted to announce the call to applicants for the Yalumba Scholarship. Yalumba recognises the challenges that the Institute's internationalisation efforts encounter and is excited to offer its continued support, worth up to £3,000.

This scholarship is awarded annually to one Europe or Americas-based, second-year MW student enrolled on the full education programme. This generous scholarship consists of:

• a return flight ticket on economy class to the MW seminar in Melbourne from a major city near the winner’s hometown;

• accommodation for the duration of the MW seminar in Melbourne; and

• a one-week visit to the Yalumba vineyard, nursery and winery in Angaston (a return flight ticket on economy class from Melbourne to Adelaide, accommodation and visits)

Selection for the scholarship will be in the form of an essay (1000 words in length, written in English). The essay topic is:

“There is no fundamental or systemic problem with the Australian wine sector; it is going through a cycle where after many years of popularity, other regions, countries or styles are garnering more interest from the gatekeepers”. Discuss the validity of this statement and suggest ways to overcome the current problems facing the Australian Wine Industry in re-building the awareness of its regional and varietal diversity.

Application forms for the Yalumba Scholarship are available on the Institute's website, or candidates may get a copy by contacting Peter Csizmadia-Honigh, the Education Manager. The winner will be expected to produce a short report about the visit to Yalumba, which will be published on the Institute's website for the benefit of other MW students.

Siobhan Turner, Executive Director of the Institute, said: "I am delighted that Yalumba has offered this generous scholarship for the third year running. For the winner it is an exceptional opportunity to benefit from the learning experience that Yalumba provides in the vineyard, winery and nursery. This scholarship also enables the Institute to achieve its goal of internationalization for which we are grateful.”

Fifth generation Yalumba vigneron, Robert Hill Smith said, “On the ground experience is a crucial part of education for all wine enthusiasts. The winner will have the rare opportunity to work alongside our experienced viti and vini teams and have our wider resources at their disposal for the duration of their visit. We look forward to receiving responses and anticipate that these will be both insightful and interesting - we are very pleased to offer this scholarship once again.”

Enquiries: +44 (0)20 7621 2830

Siobhan Turner Executive Director

sturner@mastersofwine.org

Peter Csizmadia-Honigh Education Manager

peter@mastersofwine.org

13 October 2009

Huon Hooke talks about chardonnay and clones from Heggies Vineyard

(excerpt from ‘Therapeutic cloning’ by Huon Hooke, Sydney Morning Herald – Good Living, October 13, 2009)

“The wines, as expected, were all superb. But it was the brace of Heggies Vineyard chardonnays that captivated me. Both were excellent, the regular ‘08 Chardonnay being a shade lighter, less complex and more fruit-driven, while the ’07 Reserve chardonnay was more powerful and multi-faceted. It turned out to be an issue of clones, at least in part."

“... newer chardonnay clones that have become available are changing the wines we drink, at least at the top quality end. “Today’s chardonnay’s are like chalk and cheese compared with what Australia was producing even as recently as 10 years ago,” says Louisa Rose (Chief winemaker Hill Smith Family Vineyards)

“As an example, Amanda Mader (Heggies Vineyard viticulturist) points to the clonal differences between the blocks of vines that produce the Heggies Reserve chardonnay. The regular Heggies chardonnay is made mainly from clones I10V1 and the so-called Penfolds clone. They make very good wine, especially for a current drinking chardonnay sold at an affordable price. The Reserve comes from a block planted with Bernard clones 76, 96 and 95. Age of vines is similar across all clones – about 20 years. Indicating The Reserve, Mader says: “This is what happens when you have Burgundy clones on a special bit of land.” What’s special is that the “bit of land”, I Block, is near a very large dam. The afternoon breeze comes over the dam and acts as a kind of air-conditioner, which tends to cool it down.”

30 September 2009

Heggies 242 - the "perfect" parcel from Eden Valley

"This is a sticky with plenty of oomph, in fact it was made from fruit that reached a staggering baume (sugar level) of 28.8. Crafted by winemaker Peter Gambetta from a "perfect" parcel of Eden Valley fruit it's velvet smooth with luscious upfront apricot and marmalade fruit flavours, a touch of spice, nice acidity and a clean finish. Drink it with dessert."

Kerry Skinner, Illawarra Mercury, 30 September 2009

September 2009

Vasse Felix wins three trophies at 2009 Perth Royal Wine Show

2007 Heytesbury and 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon earn trophies, and Vasse Felix wins winery trophy. Read the details

18 September 2009

Forrie's 'splurge of the week' - Pewsey The Contours 2004

"Splurging on riesling allows you to drink one of the greatest examples of the variety made in Australia without breaking the bank. It's released as a five year old wine and is sourced from the picturesque Eden Valley vineyard of Pewsey Vale with its dramatic contoured vines. Here, with the 2004 'The Contours' you have a mature riesling in its prime. It still shows plenty of youthful zest, paradoxically with some mellow softness and ever-so gentle toastiness in the mid-palate. Expect intense and pure lime juice flavours with lemongrass notes before a crisp, dry, zesty finish that excites and lingers."

Peter Forrestal, www.quaff.com.au (Aus), 18 September 2009

2 September 2009

The savoury and the sensual triumph for Yalumba

YALUMBA’S perseverance to develop wines with individuality and regional integrity has been vindicated with a TRIPLE TROPHY WIN at the 21st annual South Australian Wine of the Year Awards in Adelaide.

Yalumba Bush Vine Grenache 2008 [Barossa] received two trophies for Best Grenache & Blend in the wine professional and wine consumer categories, while Yalumba Eden Valley Viognier 2008 [Eden Valley] was the favoured choice by the wine consumer for Best Other White wine.

Hosted by The Hyatt in conjunction with The Advertiser, this event is the only wine show in Australia that combines a consumer judging panel with the expertise of a professional judging panel.

This consumer aspect is regarded by the public as highly as the winemakers’ tasting selections, which for Yalumba provides credible insight that preference for the more savoury approach to Grenache (rather than the big, rich style) and the sensory experience of Viognier are favoured by South Australian wine lovers.

This is the third trophy win for Yalumba Bush Vine Grenache 2008 this year, following winemaker Kevin Glastonbury acceptance in July of the “John Chandler Memorial Trophy for the Best Gold Medal Winning Alternative Red Variety” at the Queensland Royal Wine Show (Yalumba Eden Valley Viognier 2008 was also awarded a Top Gold).

19 August 2009

Jansz Tasmania's Natalie Fryar named a finalist for Winemaker of the Year by Gourmet Traveller WINE

Finalists for “Winemaker of the Year 2009” have been named by Gourmet Traveller WINE, and Jansz Tasmania's own Natalie Fryar is a finalist.

This is Natalie’s first nomination for the prestigious Award, and just the second time a specialist sparkling winemaker has been named in the final eight (joining Ed Carr) since the establishment of the Awards in 1998.

Natalie joined Jansz Tasmania as Winemaker in January 2001 and brought with her a wealth of knowledge and an enthusiasm for sparkling wine. Her philosophy is firmly focused in the vineyard, and since joining, Natalie has taken Jansz to new heights – driving the vineyard’s philosophy of Méthode Tasmanoise and elevating Jansz Tasmania to become one of the leading Australian sparkling specialists.

The Gourmet Traveller WINE “Winemaker of the Year” Award not only seeks out and celebrates the creativity, intellect, attention to detail, and determination of the men and women who have made the Australian wine industry the envy of the world, they also judge the collaboration and cooperation within the teams these winemakers work with.

Natalie is in great company with the other finalists being Andrew Wigan of Peter Lehmann, Andrew Fleming of Coldstream Hills, Phillip Moraghan of Curly Flat, Peter Schell of Spinifex, Julian Alcorso of Winemaking Tasmania, Ray Nadeson & Maree Collins of Lethbridge Wines, and Larry Cherubino of Larry Cherubino Wines.

The winner will be announced at a dinner in Melbourne on October 1, and featured in the October / November issue of Gourmet Traveller WINE magazine.

Read what Gourmet Traveller WINE says about Natalie and her success with Jansz Tasmania.

August 2009

Unexpected Treats

"The decision by Robert Hill Smith more than a decade ago to invest strongly in planting new vines in the Wrattonbully district, directly north of Coonawarra and also boasting areas of terra rossa soil, is now clearly understood thanks to the superb fruit quality of this wine. Sourced from the Smith & Hooper family vineyards, this is merlot with sublime richness and lush fruit flavours, its overt mulberry blending with rich chocolate notes and a pinch of fragrant brown spice. Having been matured in mainly older French oak barrels, it has both body and balance that is especially rare in merlot at such a modest price. Most other corporate producers in the Wrattonbully district simply use their fruit to plump up the flavour of generic value for money wines; branding wines such as this with the Wrattonbully name should greatly bolster this region's reputation."

David Sly, SA Life Magazine (Aus), August 2009

4 August 2009

Hill Smith Family Vineyards - "passion and foresight", says James Halliday

“The Hill Smith family has passion and foresight to make wines that best represent a single vineyard site,” writes James Halliday. In his Australian Wine Companion 2010 Edition, he gives top marks to many wines produced from these exceptional vineyards, such as Jansz Tasmania, Heggies Vineyard, Pewsey Vale, Smith & Hooper and Oxford Landing. Read all about it here

4 August 2009

James Halliday rates Yalumba 5 stars

James Halliday rates Yalumba 5 stars: “Great vision - long term commitment to quality - serious player at top end of full-bodied Australian reds”. In his Australian Wine Companion 2010 Edition, he also give top marks to many Yalumba wines. Read all about it here

21 July 2009

Huon Hooke crowns Pewsey Vale Prima Riesling 2008 'WINE OF THE WEEK' and 93/100! " Utterly delicious and a worthy follow-up to the '07 Prima"

93/100. "This is the alter-ego to (the) regular Pewsey Vale riesling. It's a low-alcohol (9.5 per cent), early-harvested, slightly sweet style from the same Eden Valley vineyard that yields the regular Pewsey Vale and aged Contours rieslings. It's a respectful tilt at Germany's Mosel Valley styles. Tropical, herbal, lightly pineapple aromas are captivating while the taste is light but intense, gently off-dry rather than sweet, with great tension between fruit, sweetness and acidity. Utterly delicious and a worthy follow-up to the '07 Prima. Best drunk now or within a couple of years. Sealed with a glass Vino-Lok stopper."

Huon Hooke, Good Living - Sydney Morning Herald, 21 July 2009

26 June 2009

The Essence of Viognier - a trio of reviews from The Wine Front

Leading Australian wine review and information site, The Wine Front, independently shares some wise words on wine by leading scribes Campbell Mattinson and Gary Walsh. This week The Wine Front features a trio of Viognier wines by Yalumba, Australia's most influential producers of this exotic French variety.

Yalumba The Virgilius Eden Valley Viognier 2008

93 points - "Right then. We are now at the business end of the Viognier plane, perhaps even First Class - well at least Qantas first class anyway. Bearing in mind that I rarely like any Viognier, in anything, at any time, I'm very impressed by this. I'd not buy it mind you, but that's not the point. My tip for the day is never serve good Viognier cold, and while hell rarely freezes over, this should not be served with anything more than a light chill.

White flowers, spice, apricot kernel and little funkiness adding interest - expressive but not over-bearing. There's a good balance struck between varietal richness and restraint here - the oily beast whipped back into a cage gilt with honey, exotic spice, fine acidity and an almost grapefruity freshness. The length is excellent with the lightest of phenolic grip giving a little tweak on exit. Very impressive."

Yalumba Eden Valley Viognier 2008

86 points -"A little woolly sulphur with peach, pear, spice and lychee - white flowers too. A little more restrained in style than your usual Australian Viogner with its mid-weight palate, and while the flavour is good, it has a somewhat unyielding nature and a hardness that fails to win me over. The finish puts me in mind of slapping aftershave onto a well scrubbed face. It's OK and perfectly drinkable, but not much fun.The words may seem harsher than the score would indicate, but that's an attempt to strike a balance between the subjective and the objective."

Yalumba Y Series Viognier 2008

90 points - "There's a waft of sulphur but no problem and then the usual array of Viognier smells - honeysuckle, stonefruit, lychee, and at the price point there's no questioning the varietal integrity of this particular wine! It's warm and slippery but balanced and clean with abundant flavour and a little candied ginger spice thrown in for good measure. Sweetish and a little phenolic on the finish but grand value, all things considered."

Gary Walsh, www.winefront.com.au, 26 June 2009

25 June 2009

In the words of The Wine Front team, "class, balance and length" define Smith & Hooper Reserve Merlot 2006

90 points - "Smith & Hooper wines, from my limited experience of them, all have this warming nostalgic cuddle of slightly custardy vanilla oak that I find quite attractive, if not a little retro. There's also red berries and cherry, a nice light earthiness and some mint/menthol lift with a bit of spice and bay leaf thrown in for good measure. Medium bodied, fresh and lively with a little olive and cold tea adding complexity. Not a big wine, or a thumper, but has class, balance and length. It drinks really well, has no excess of alcohol and looked better after being open for a day. Whether this delivers the $40 worth of ticketed RRP is another matter, although I really like the wine."

Gary Walsh, www.winefront.com.au, 25 June 2009

9 June 2009

The Age Epicure Uncorked Top wine for Under $18 - Oxford Landing Sauvignon Blanc! "Over delivers"

"The (Oxford Landing) enterprise is a large, privately owned South Australian winery that's an industry leader. Even this simple, young sauvignon blanc overdelivers at the price. It has green pea, herbaceous and lime aromas with a whiff of sulphur that dissipates with air. In the mouth, it's light and zesty with good mid-palate fruit and a clean finish. Food ideas : sushi; chilli crab."

Ralph Kyte-Powell, The Age Epicure, 9 June 2009

June 2009

"...the greatest Australian Viognier I have ever tasted" - Nick Stock and Tyson Stelzer, WINE100

"This is one of the greatest Australian Viogniers that I have ever tasted. Louisa Rose says it was only by chance that it came in at 13.5% this vintage, but the calm precision that this cooler style bestows on the wine is mesmerising. It's textured, lifted, spicy, long and concentrated."

Panel of Judges, WBM100 (Aus), June 2009

9 June 2009

The Age Epicure Uncorked Top wine for Under $18 - Oxford Landing Sauvignon Blanc! "Over delivers"

"The (Oxford Landing) enterprise is a large, privately owned South Australian winery that's an industry leader. Even this simple, young sauvignon blanc overdelivers at the price. It has green pea, herbaceous and lime aromas with a whiff of sulphur that dissipates with air. In the mouth, it's light and zesty with good mid-palate fruit and a clean finish. Food ideas : sushi; chilli crab."

Ralph Kyte-Powell, The Age Epicure, 9 June 2009

6-7 June 2009

"Yalumba and winemaker Louisa Rose are the future in Australian wine"

Max Allen - prominent and established Australian journalist, is the co-wine writer for The Weekend Australian magazine with James Halliday. Allen’s feature ‘Grape Expectations’ in the 6-7 June 2009 issue focuses on six people who are shaping the future of Australian wine’.

Yalumba winemaker Louisa Rose is ‘the future’. Read on : -

'Grape Expectations' - Max Allen

“What ever the Next Big Thing turns out to be, Louisa Rose will probably be the one who makes it.

Yalumba has been at the forefront of introducing new wine styles to Australian drinkers over the past decade; perfumed white viognier and slinky, supple red tempranillo.

Soon, look out for crisp, dry whites made from other Mediterranean grapes, such as vermentino and fiano, and in a few years – if Rose gets her way – sauvignon blanc-like whites made from drought-tolerant verdejo.

Yalumba also leads the industry in environmental performance; reducing carbon emissions, increasing biodiversity and exploring organic viticulture. As well as looking to the future, it has been celebrating its 160-year-old Barossa heritage by developing an Old Vine charter, and releasing reds from ancient shiraz and grenache plants.

This inspirational formula works because Yalumba is a family-owned business. “We’re not trying to keep shareholders happy,” says Rose. ‘We have the freedom to play with new wine styles because we are creating out own future.”

Max Allen, The Weekend Australian magazine, 6-7 June 2009

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au

23 April 2009

"it would be easy to convince them that it came from a bottle, it is that good"

Growers Garden Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2008

"I remember writing special wines by the glass on various black boards when I was working on the floor in restaurants, and if they were being poured from something other than a bottle I would mention it. Peter Lehmann 'Stonewell from Magnum', for example. I liked it, however it doesn't have the same snigger inducing quality as when you say Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc from Goon Bag though, does it? We are now comfortably in what I have decided to refer to as the 'Goon Financial Crisis', which is perfect timing for this new offering from New Zealand. The wine itself is fresh and 'zippy' and perfect for what it costs. The 2 litres will set you back around $20 (approximately $7.70 per 750ml), which I think is great. It is clearly Sauvignon Blanc and happily only 12.5% alcohol. I poured it into a little carafe so I could feel a little posh, and so if anyone else tasted it, it would be easy to convince them that it came from a bottle, it is that good. This will soon become a core product for us, during our vinous GFC."

Ben Knight, www.benandwine.com (Aus), 23 April 2009

21 April 2009

Oxford Landing "Better value than most" & "Exceptional Value" - reviewed by Paddy Kendler of the Herald Sun, Australia

Oxford Landing Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2007

4 stars -"The majority cabernet component definitely drives this handy red blend. Distinctive herbal, leafy and earthy characters are apparent, as well as some typical blackcurrant and a grunt of dry tannin towards the finish. Those who prefer a softer, sweeter style may opt for the shiraz under the same label, but this wine has more structure and substance. Better value than most at this price."

Paddy Kendler, Herald Sun (Aus), 21 April 2009

Oxford Landing Chardonnay 2008

5 stars -"Perhaps the very best of casks aside, the dependable Oxford is just about the best budget-priced chardonnay on the market. Yes, it's soft and simple but undeniably pleasant and dangerously quaffable. The dominant aromas and flavours are peach and melon. Oak plays a minor supporting role. Given widespread discounting, you really do get expectional value here, as with all the wines under this banner."

Paddy Kendler, Herald Sun (Aus), 14 April 2009

31 March 2009

92 points - Yalumba The Scribbler Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2007 [Barossa]

"I noticed a few searches for "Scribbler" going down on The Wine Front so, being a pro-active sort of lad, wasted no time in touching up Yalumba for a taster (as they say in the industry, and often they are made of good fruit too, those tasters). Anyway, the wine turned up promptly and on a Tuesday, delivered by a particularly portly panting puffing pugnacious sort of porter. And by this I mean a typically out of condition courier who munted and moaned like she'd just climbed Everest after achieving the summit of our house, namely the front door, in order to deliver this bottle. I hope you all appreciate her brave sacrifice.

Blackcurrant, red fruit, leaf, tobacco, cedar and nuts - a civilised smelling sort of wine offering the best of both worlds. It's medium bodied and quite juicily red fruited but rubbed back with savoury tobacco and olive flavours. Has some of those chunky grippy 2007 tannins but offers them with real drinkability and ease. Long and dry on the finish but the tannins cleanse and square the wine off. No alcohol or oak excess and 100% yum. Beautiful wine and a bit of a bargain too."

Gary Walsh, www.thewinefront.com.au, 31 March 2009

March 2009

"Robert Joseph encounters Pewsey Vale Riesling - "brilliantly youthful"

"I remember a number of thought-provoking moments. There was the encounter with a brilliantly youthful 25 -years, screwcap- sealed Pewsey Vale, Eden Valley Riesling which proved that that white wine, at least, could age perfectly well without a cork."

Robert Joseph, Decanter magazine (UK), March 2009

March 2009

"Opawa Pinot Noir (Marlborough) is not a wine to be ignored"

"There was considerable praise from samplers for this pinot.

Opawa Pinot Noir (Marlborough) is not a wine to be ignored. There's lots of good pinot character, including that distinctive NZ funk, which is not to be confused with old-fashioned and to-be-avoided French funk before they cleaned up their collective acts. This wine has that warm, gamey spiciness and nice chewy texture that says 'Can I have some very tasty food please?' We think that spaghetti with rich Bolognaise sauce would be rather good, so would a decadently delicious lasagne for that matter.

Opawa has an excellent background - it is made by Clive Jones, maker of the splendid Nautilus Pinot. The packaging may look all very sophisticated and restrained but be sure, there's a little bit of playful devil inside."

Pinot Shop www.pinotshop.com (NZ), March 2009

31 March 2009

Pinot Noir from Nautilus is "a cut above the rest", writes Huon Hooke, Australia's leading wine writer

"This serious New Zealand pinot is deep and layered with good supple tannins and fleshness. Its structure is a cut above the usual Marlborough fruit bombs. The aromas are rich and deep; dark fruits backed by classy but subtle oak. Long palate, could take cellaring. Now to six years. 93/100"

Huon Hooke, Good Living - Sydney Morning Herald (Aus), 31 March 2009

26 March 2009

The rare Yalumba Single Site wines continue to impress...Read on

"Yalumba's new single site range is showcasing wines from some of the top fruit that the Yalumba group have access to. Sourced from the Barossa Valley Floor this is a traditionally styled chocolatey Shiraz with some intriguing spicy, meaty notes adding complexity to what is a very attractive package. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate writes, "94 Points - My preference in this series is the 2005 Hahn Farm Vineyard, located in the Light's Pass region of Barossa. The vineyard was planted in 1970 on its own roots. The wine spent 20 months in 60% new French oak hogsheads, the balance in seasoned French hogsheads. Opaque purple-coloured, the bouquet reveals a hint of eucalyptus, spice box, game, bacon, scorched earth, blueberry, and plum. This is followed by an already complex Shiraz with gobs of spicy black fruits, notes of earth and chocolate, outstanding depth and concentration, and a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. It will benefit from several years of additional cellaring and offer prime drinking from 2012 to 2025."

Angus Hughson, www.wine-ark.com (Aus), 26 March 2009

March 2009

Wines of the week

Pewsey Vale Pinot Gris 2008 [Eden Valley]

"If all Australian pinot gris were as good as this, the variety wouldn't get such a bum tap from wine snobs. Aromas of doughy bread, flowers and spicy squashed grapes, and a fresh-but-creamy aftertaste."

Max Allen, The Weekend Australian Magazine (Aus), 21-22 March 2009

Pewsey Vale Gewurztraminer 2008

"As I began cooking, I opened the bottle and I had a hard time not finishing it before dinner. Musky honeysuckle aromas with Turkish delight and citrus flavours leaped from the glass. It finishes cleanly, with a zesty, fresh palate. Make sure you have a second bottle on hand if you're feeling thirsty."

Fergus McGhie, Food & Wine, Canberra Times (Aus), 18 March 2009

Pewsey Vale The Contours Riesling 2003 [Eden Valley]

Pewsey Vale The Contours is a reward to riesling lovers, including Epicure wine writer Ralph Kyte-Powell

"Fortunately for riesling lovers, a handful of wineries keep back some of their best wines for release with some bottle age. This example from the Eden Valley has a concentrated, rich nose reminiscent of lemon butter with a hint of bottle-aged toastiness. The densely textured, complex palate is mature, savoury and dry."

Ralph Kyte-Powell, The Age - Epicure (Aus), 17 March 2009

Pewsey Vale Prima Riesling 2008

"LAST year was a classic riesling vintage in the Clare and Eden Valleys and while the panel preferred the Pewsey Vale Riesling, my highest pointed wine was this one (Pewsey Vale Prima Riesling 2008). Initially this is lean, dry, firm and long, and then the balancing midpalate subtle sweetness becomes apparent before the drying, textured, lingering and cleansing after-taste cuts in. This is a very good wine made with 15 to 20 years of ageing potential."

John Jens, Western Suburbs Weekly (Aus), 10 March 2009

March / April 2009

Wine writer Toni Paterson MW is won over by two chardonnays from Heggies Vineyard, Eden Valley

The Chardonnay Set :

Toni Paterson MW, Life etc (AUS), March / April 09

"Excellence is something that I continually search for in my life as a wine critic - and believe me it is a rare attribute, but every now and then I taste a wine that simply blows me away.

The latest wines to do this come from a very special high-altitude vineyard in the Eden Valley: Heggies Vineyard, which you may know of from the very fine Rieslings it has produced over the years. But it is not the Riesling I wish to tell you about: it’s the Chardonnay. Or more specifically a spectacular pair of Chardonnays: 2007 Heggies Vineyard Chardonnay and 2006 Heggies Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay.

The 2007 is a stunning wine, weighty and flavoursome yet graceful and elegant with smoky, nutty aromas and a little sweet fruit on the palate. The 2006 Reserve is extraordinary; savoury liner focused, mealy and complex and defined by a firm core of acidity.

These two magnificent wines are made from the same variety in the same vineyard by the same winemaker yet are vastly different in style. Yes they are from consecutive years but this is not the sole reason for their difference.

When I sang the praises of these two wines to winemaker Peter Gambetta, he replied, “I am so pleased that my wines have spoken to you.”

He explained how the taste of certain wines had changed his life. He relocated to Margaret River on the basis of a taste of a Cape Mentelle wine, and after tasting the Italian great Orenellia he just had to visit Italy. As a devotee of aromas and flavours myself, I completely understand this type of olfactory leadership.

He speaks of the Heggies Chardonnay as works in progress and modestly confesses the styles are still evolving. But from point of view they are already near perfection. A little more texture on the Reserve would be nice, as would a little more complexity on the other, but that’s only if I am being ultra picky. They are sensational just as they are.

Gambetta revealed that one of the main reasons for their contrasting styles was the different clonal material that is used in the two wines (the word clone refers to genetically different cultivars of the same grape variety). The French Bernard clones 76 95 and 96 are used in the Reserve and are responsible for its finesse, minerality and intense flavour.

Also important is the specific location of the single block these grapes are sourced from, which benefits from cooling breezes off the vineyard dam. The clonal composition of the standard Chardonnay, sourced from a number of blocks, is a little more varied, resulting in more fruit flavours as well as nutty complexity.

Both wines exhibit the sublime fruit definition that comes from Chardonnay grown in a cool climate. Both are fermented in fine French oak using wild yeasts. And both will be completely satisfying to the wine connoisseur.”

Toni Paterson is a Master of Wine and wine judge.

Click here to visit Toni's official website Wine Diva

Both chardonnay wines tasted by Toni are currently available. Click on the below links to read Peter Gambetta's winemaking notes:-

Heggies Vineyard Chardonnay 2007

Heggies Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay 2006

February / March 2009

Yalumba’s Louisa Rose - and Australian Winemaker of the Year 2008 - talks with Drinks Trade magazine about the inspiration behind her winemaking success

"Being crowned Gourmet Traveller WINE Winemaker of the Year 2009 was a brilliant way to see out 2008 for Louisa Rose. The chief winemaker at Yalumba spoke to Sarah Davey about the award, the inspiration behind her wine and her admiration for the family who helped her passion along.”

Drinks Trade: Congratulations on your win! How does it make you feel, and how has this experience translated to how you approach your work?

It is a great honour to win this award, particularly considering who the other nominations for (this award) were – many winemakers who I have great admiration and respect for. Having said that, it is great to have the hard work that the team at Yalumba has put in over the last 12 months and more recognised by the industry. We are very proud of the wines that we produce, and there is a lot of thought, passion and sweat that goes into getting them to our customers.

I don’t think that this has changed my approach to work. In fact in some ways it has reinforced the importance of what we have been doing and to keep on doing it. If we stop working hard to keep the wine quality at the for, and to keep innovating then we run the risk of going backwards rapidly, particularly in these challenging times when competition is fierce around the world.

DT: Your experience began with the family-owned Riesling Vineyard near Yarra Glen. In what ways did this shape you r passion for winemaking?

Certainly growing up with the vineyard did help kick-start my passion for the industry. I think the passion for winemaking specifically came later – when I really understood what the job involved, and as I became part of the Yalumba winemaking team.

DT: You began work at Yalumba as a cellar hand while you were studying at Roseworthy. What was it about the winery that drew you in?

There are many things about Yalumba and the Hill Smith Family that drew me in and have kept me here. Firstly it is the family and the fact that working here is like being part of a large extended family. After nearly 160 years there is great tradition and history, and intertwined with this is a culture of innovation and experimentation. No winemaker could ask for a better range of fruit, varieties, resources, mentors or encouragement than that which we have to work with at Yalumba.

Then there are the people I work with – from the cellar to the winemakers and all that makes the wheels turn in getting the wines in the bottle and to the customers. We all work with a common goal – there are few egos that get in the way of the best result. Yalumba is of course an integral part of the Barossa community. The culture and society of the Barossa region is like being at the hub of the whole Australian industry. Even walking down the street you see famous and icon wine industry figures.

DT: What are you current responsibilities as chief winemaker at Yalumba?

My main role is to work with and guide the winemaking team in the making of all the Yalumba and Hill Smith Family wines; this is philosophical as well as technical. We are a team of 11 winemakers who work closely together to produce the wines in our portfolio. People management comes into it of course, as does normal administration. There is also a part of my role that involves being the face of the wines – getting out in the markets, at tastings and dinners and presenting Yalumba and our wines to the market.

DT: What is your signature wine and what do you believe makes it stand out from other wines available to the market?

The Virgilius Viognier is our signature white wine. We have been in the enviable position of being a pioneer of a variety in the country, and in many ways the world. Because of this we have been able to create the style of The Virgilius from scratch, from the oldest Viognier vines in Australia. The wine is a powerful wine that expresses the spectrum of Viognier’s aromatics and lusciousness, while having layers of textures and complexity from winemaking influence. At the same time the wine shows a level of restraint and finesse.

DT: As a winemaker what changes have you seen over time and what do you predict will happen in the future?

Starting at Yalumba in the early 90’s I have seen the growth of the export market for Australia from almost nothing to what it is today. This has demanded more plantings and the results have included new regions – for example Wrattonbully - new varieties and new winemaking techniques to be developed. We are now a much more sophisticated winemaking country than we were. Given how badly I predicted the last vintage I am not sure I want to predict anything! However I do think that as a winemaking country Australia is going to need to restructure to keep a viable place in the world wine market.

DT: What has been the most valuable piece of advice you have been given?

"Lady of the vine"

Sarah Davey, Drinks Trade Magazine (Aus), Feb / March 2009

17 March 2009

"You, quite simply, won't find much better value Coonawarra than this in 2009" - Angus Hughson reviews Yalumba Menzies Cabernet 2005

"Yalumba has always produced Coonawarra reds that tend towards the herbal/dusty end of the spectrum. But in 2005, an excellent Coonawarra vintage, they have changed tack opting for a more classical cassis, fruit-dominant style, which is, in my book, a real move for the better. In fact, this is an absolute belter made in a dense and compact style that immediately impresses with its layers of power-packed aromas that are lifted by some cedary/ dusty complexity. In the mouth the fruit is generous, almost explosive, yet retains a measured character. All of this sits on marked chewy tannins that mingle beautifully with the fruit, which suggest that the wine will drink well for 15 years or more. You, quite simply, won't find much better value Coonawarra than this in 2009. Jeremy Oliver writes, "94 Points - Very elegant, firm and fine-grained, this charmingly sweet-fruited cabernet reveals pristine small red and black berry flavours tightly knit! with cedary chocolate/mint oak and framed by dusty, almost chalky tannins. Showing a hint of sappiness, it's already quite complex and seamless. Tremendous value. Drink - 2025." And from James Halliday, "94 Points - Perfectly presented cassis and blackcurrant fruit; tannins and oak in the back seat; supple mouthfeel.". Campbell Mattinson chimes in with "95 Points - The 2005 marks a new era for this vineyard and label. Yalumba see this wine as the future of Menzies, and boy I hope they're right. It's curranty, mulberried, straight and long - archetypal line-and-length red wine - with minty tannins and real length. Huge cellaring potential. Great varietal purity, and yet greatly elegant. Drink - 2022"

Angus Hughson, www.wine-ark.com (Aus), 17th March 2009

March 2009

Ringbolt - BEST Cab Sav @ 2009 Sydney Royal Show - and its only $20

The Wine Star Journal reviews stand out winners from the 2009 Sydney Royal Wine Show - with Ringbolt Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon at the top of their list!

"The 2007 Margaret River Cabernet vintage has already produced the Jimmy Watson Trophy and countless other major show awards. At the just completed Macquarie Royal Sydney Wine Show 2009, the Trophy for Best Cabernet Sauvignon went to Ringbolt Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon 2007. As impressive as a $20 wine picking up a major gong is, it is the wines it beat home, which illustrate the value here. Penfolds Bin 407, Houghton Wisdom, Hardys HRB, Wolf Blass Grey, Coldstream Reserve Cabernet, Wynns John Riddoch the list goes on and on. I'd add that most wines retail for twice the price as Ringbolt but some are 3 and 4 times the price.

Indeed the Ringbolt encapsulates what many drinkers love about Margaret River - approachability. I don't want to turn this into a Margaret River versus Coonawarra versus Yarra battle but the balance here is difficult to emulate from other regions at such a young age. It has wonderful coffee, chocolate and leaf on the nose with an inch of briary character for interest. In the mouth it begins with dark berry fruit before teasing with bright berry and ripe flavours on a long finish. Even with the expected influx of good juice from Margaret River, I'd be surprised if anyone trumps this at twenty bucks. An excellent wine”

Ringbolt Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 – winner of 'The Dan Murphy's Perennial Trophy' and Gold Medal for Exhibitor of the Best Varietal Wine, Cabernet Sauvignon at the 2009 Sydney Royal Wine Show.

Click here to read winemaker notes

“It’s enlightening as a winemaker to be able work with a great expression of Cabernet Sauvignon in Australia - Margaret River. The wines from this region are quite distinctive and this award for Ringbolt is testament to the strength of the 2007 vintage in Margaret River and the meticulous efforts of our partner growers.” Peter Gambetta, Winemaker

Ringbolt Winemaker, Peter Gambetta, first discovered Margaret River Cabernet on his first vintage in West Australia 1986.

Click here to learn more about Peter's passions and experience in winemaking

6 March 2009

Jansz Tasmania celebrates DOUBLE TROPHY WIN at The Sydney International Wine Competition 2009

In the sparkling wine class that attracted 86 entries from the around the world – 18 alone from Champagne – Jansz Vintage Cuvée 2004 came out on top, winning the Trophy for BEST SPARKLING WINE OF THE SHOW

Jansz Tasmania Premium Vintage Cuvée 2004 has beaten the French at their own game, taking home the prized ‘Best Sparkling Wine of the Competition’ Marne et Champagne Diffusion Perpetual Trophy at the Sydney International Wine Competition 2009 (SIWC09). This class attracted 86 entries of sparkling wines from around the world – 18 alone from Champagne.

What an outstanding result for the 2004 Premium Cuvée which also received The National Australia Day Council Perpetual Trophy “Australia Day Wine of the Year” at the same Competition announced earlier in the year to coincide with our Nation’s official day of celebration.  This is the fourth time in six years Jansz Tasmania Premium Vintage Cuvée has been chosen as the Nation’s celebratory wine - an unprecedented achievement.

Jansz Tasmania Premium Vintage Cuvée 2004 trophy and medal count now stands at: three trophies, three gold and one silver. Read winemakers notes

Natalie Fryar and the Jansz Tasmania team have always remained steadfast with their vision to create the pre-eminent, New World, sparkling wine. “Sparkling wine can be many things – the French have taught us this. Winning these trophies for our Premium Vintage Cuvée is reassurance we are on the right track, and achieving our goal in producing a sparkling wine that is distinctive”, says Nat.
 
According to Chairman of Judges, Kevin Milne, this is the first time in many years an Australian wine from Tasmania has won the trophy ahead of a number of French Champagnes. “This is a great reflection of the huge improvements made in the high end of sparkling wine production in Australia”, says Kevin. “Looking at the 2009 list of trophy winners, wines from cooler regions have performed extremely well, with the majority of trophy winners coming from the cooler areas of Australia and New Zealand.”

The SIWC is highly regarded due to its panel of international judges, including wine and food experts, and is the only major international wine competition to judge wine where it is most often enjoyed – with food.  This unique format has a tendency to promote and award wines of good balance and harmony.

Sydney International Wine Competition – read the judges' comments

Jansz Tasmania Premium Vintage Cuvée 2004 is currently available at The Jansz Wine Room in Pipers Brook, open Monday – Sunday, 10am – 4.30pm. Visit The Jansz Wine Room

History of winners for the MARNE & CHAMPAGNE DIFFUSION PERPETUAL TROPHY “BEST SPARKLING WINE OF COMPETITION”
 
YEAR WINNING WINE
2009 Jansz Tasmania Premium Vintage Cuvee 2004
2008 Champagne Lanson Gold Label Brut Vintage 1996
2007 Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Mis en Cave 2001 NV
2006 Champagne Lanson Gold Label Brut Vintage 1996
2005 Champagne Lanson Black Label NV
2004 Champagne Lanson Gold Label 1996
2003 Schramsberg “J Schram” 1996
2002 Champagne Lanson Gold Label 1994
2001 Champagne Lanson Noble Cuvee Brut 1989
2000 Champagne Gauthier Brut NV
1999 Champagne Lanson Vintage 1990
1998 Champagne Marc Chauvet “Special Club” 1988
1997 Corbans “Verde” Methode Traditionelle NV
1998 Seaview Vintage Reserve Pinot Noir Chardonnay MC Brut 1992
1994 Yellowglen “Cuvee Victoria” MC 1991

21 February 2009

Jansz Winemaker Natalie Fryar caught 'fooling around' with chardonnay

Leading Australian wine journalist, Jane Faulkner, catches up with Natalie Fryar to discuss the distinciveness of chardonnay in her Tasmanian, premium sparkling wines

JANSZ winemaker Natalie Fryar admits she’s been fooling for the past few years, and it’s been with chardonnay. She’s been tweaking here and there, all the while working towards a blanc de blanc style of sparkling wine, which is all chardonnay.

The cool climate of Tasmania, specifically the maritime–influenced Pipers Brook region north of Launceston, is home to Jansz – the hub of the sparkling wine industry, with all the top producers in close proximity. Pinot noir is very much a feature in the vintage cuvée and the late disgorged wines, but Fryar says chardonnay, with its distinct aromas profile, defines the Jansz style.

“There’s a nice balance between nougat, almond and honeysuckle notes when older to that zesty, grapefruit character in young chardonnay,” she says. “Pinot adds too, with its sea spray and truffle note … we’re chardonnay dominant but it’s not by much.”

Depending on the vintage, the chardonnay component usually hovers around 54 per cent, occasionally going up to 60 per cent.

“Yes I have been fooling around with blanc de blancs, as we are trying to make different wines with chardonnay, and so some parcels are 100 per cent barrel fermented. We’ve renewed a couple of blocks at the winery and planted them to interesting chardonnay clones but we’re still a few years away from releasing those wines,” she adds.

Fryar isn’t in a hurry to rush things.

After eight years at Jansz, she can talk confidently about understanding and appreciating the strengths and occasional weakness of particular sites. Pinot meunier was the weak link – the wrong clone that just didn’t perform well and so it no longer features in any blend – the last time it made an appearance was in 2003.

If chardonnay gives the distinctive aromatic profile to Jansz wines, then wood and ageing on lees creates more complexity and texture on the palate. The vintage wine now sees 40 per cent oak – this is aged wood, between eight and 15-years old, because it’s not about adding oak character, “it’s about adding depth and a savouriness to it”, Fryar says.

Another sparkling winemaking tool that adds complexity and texture is to leave the wine in the bottle on lees longer – the late-disgorged style spends seven years ageing that way; hence the name – when it’s ready to be released, the sediment that has collected at the neck of the bottle (where all the delicious, nutty, leesy rich nuances come from) is disgorged and the bottle resealed, ready for sale.

“My preference is for vintage but I love the depth and resonance in the late-disgorged, with its truffle and nougat notes,” says Fryar. “It’s really very attractive. Mainly, though, this is just another expression of Tasmanian fruit. It’s unique, has strong presence, and that’s exciting.”

Jansz Tasmania Late Disgorged Premium Cuvée 2001 [Tasmania]"This wine is all about enjoying and savouring those layers of complexity, the result of seven years on lees. There's plenty of richness, with toasty brioche notes, yet it's quite delicate with a touch of candied leon peel and a hint of a fig, plus a strawberry-spice note matched to lovely creamy mousse. It builds on the palate yet has pronounced refreshing acidity to finish, and great persistence. Terrific."

Click here to read the winemakers notes

Jansz Tasmania Premium Vintage Cuvée 2004 [Tasmania]"Winemaker Natalie Fryar says 2004 was a difficult vintage - cool temperatures and rain throughout the ripening period - but it's not obvious in this wonderfully balanced bubbly. Pinot noir, with its muted red fruit and spice notes, are to the fore alongside loads of fine bead and with plenty of rich, nutty, toasty autolysis notes, creamy and textural with good length."

Click here to read the winemakers notes

Jansz Tasmania Premium Non Vintage Rosé [Tasmania]"Jansz's vintage rose is one of the best - complex and focused - but for about half the price you can enjoy the non-vintage with its enticing copper onion-skin colour. There's a core of bright, fresh fruit with hints of strawberry and cream, fine mousse and cleansing acidity, just a bit short on the palate yet a refreshing finish."

Click here to read the winemakers notes

Jane Faulkner, The Age 'A2' (Aus), 21 February 2009

22 February 2009

92/100 "What a Bargain" - Tim White takes a look at Yalumba Y Series Pinot Grigio 2008

"Old camphor spicy, has earthy mushroom and currant: pretty deep. Plum and apricot tasting in the mouth, with gentle chew and a savoury back palate. This has some character. What a bargain!"

Tim White, The Australian Financial Review - Life + Leisure, 20-22 February 2009

14 February 2009

Max Allen asks Jansz Tasmania, "Will you be my Valentine"...read on.

"It is illegal not to recommend a pink fizz on Valentine's Day, apparently. So, being a law-abiding sort of person, here's one: this fabulously complex, subtle, floral Tassie bubbly whispers "I love you" with beautiful eloquence. There."

Max Allen, The Weekend Australian Magazine, 14 February 2009

Australia's Wine Communicator of the Year 2008, Peter Forrestal, word on Yalumba - "Yalumba is now performing stunningly in all segments of the market".

"Made by Yalumba since the 1940s, the brillant 2007 celebrates the Galway Vintage Shiraz's 60th anniversary by being named Quaff 2009's Wine of the year. As I considered it the best wine available in Australia for less than $15, I have to include it here. Yalumba is now performing stunningly in all segments of the market, from cask wines to it super-premium, single-vineyard Barossa shiraz. If you are looking for consistently good budget-priced wines, Yalumba is a safe bet. The Galway Vintage was supervised by Andrew La Nauze through a tricky, drought-affected growing season that resulted in low yields and, no doubt, contributed to the wine's concentration. The 2007 Galway Vintage shows attractive spicy aromatics, rich, ripe, blackberry-pastille, mulberry and dark plum flavours, velvety texture and a fresh, clean finish that lingers."

Peter Forrestal, Gourmet Traveller WINE Magazine (Aus), February 2009

3 February 2009

Huon Hooke's "WINE OF THE WEEK" - the premium Heggies Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay 2006!

"This is the first Reserve Chardonnay I've seeen from Heggies and what a debut. This is outstanding - so much for Eden Valley not delivering the goods with chardonnay. It's a backward, youthfully refined style, nutty and complex with some low level sulphides and a teasing hint of honeysuckle. The taste is spritely and has lively, minerally tanginess; not too heavy or rich (as resereve chardonnay's often are) but with underlying concentration and drive. A very fine wine that could hold for five years in the cellar. The regular '07 Heggies Chardonnay ($27) is also good. 95/100"

Huon Hooke, Sydney Morning Herald - Good Living (Aus), 3 February 2009

20 January 2009

For the fourth time in six years, Jansz Tasmania Premium Vintage Cuvée has been chosen as the Nation’s celebratory wine – an unprecedented achievement.

Established in 1993 by the National Australia Day Council and Sydney International Wine Competition, this Award represents the “best of Australia”. To qualify for this honour, Jansz Tasmania Premium Vintage Cuvée 2004 first received the Sydney International Wine Competition trophy for “Best Australian Sparkling Wine – Apéritif Style” 2009. Read the winemaker's tasting notes

“Receiving this acknowledgement for the Premium Vintage Cuvée is humbling, and reassurance that we are achieving our goal in producing a sparkling wine that is distinctive - and enjoyed with confidence alongside food,” says Winemaker Natalie Fryar. This trophy-winning wine was judged with a chilled cucumber and avocado soup with Blue Swimmer crab, presented by SIWC Chef Jacqueline Mason. Download recipe

This outstanding honour is timely in the lead up to the Australia Day Celebrations for 2009, and continues to build on the success of this premium sparkling cuvée in an International Competition, where the coveted Trophy has previously been won by Jansz Tasmania in:

• 2007 Sydney International Wine Competition – Jansz Tasmania Premium Vintage Cuvée 2002

• 2005 Sydney International Wine Competition - Jansz Tasmania Premium Vintage Cuvée 2000

•2004 Sydney International Wine Competition - Jansz Tasmania Premium Vintage Cuvée 1999

The Sydney International Wine Competition is highly regarded due to its panel of international judges, including wine and food experts, and is the only major international wine competition to judge wine where it is most often enjoyed – with food. This unique format has a tendency to promote and award wines of good balance and harmony. Visit the competition website and read what the panel of judges had to say.

24 November 2008

Qantas Trophy for 'BEST PINOT NOIR of the show'

Winemaker Clive Jones is particularly excited about this success: "We are really proud of this wine and have had a great response from the media and wine trade. It is rewarding in support of the purchase of the Clay Hills Vineyard in 2007 and particularly pleasing to receive an award from a region that is so strong in this varietal. The competition is always fierce but there is a lot of respect amongst the entrants."

Click here to download presenter

23 November 2008

Pol Roger Pure NV, in the Summer edition of 'Uncorked and Uncapped' by Sally Gudgeon and Ralph Kyte-Powell. FIVE STARS!

BEST CHAMPAGNE - "The understated silver-and-white label marks a new Pol Roger. Following the trend for totally dry champagne, it has subtle apple and citrus fruit woven through biscuity, vanillin complexity. The savoury, clean palate has superb texture and length." Rating: 5 stars. Food: Oysters. Ageing: drink now.

Sally Gudgeon & Ralph Kyte-Powell, Uncorked and Uncapped Summer 2008, Sunday Life, The Sun-Herald Magazine (Aus), 23 November 2008

27 October 2008

The Quaff 2009 ‘For they are jolly good chaps’ WINERY OF THE YEAR AWARD

“The Barossa-based family winery has always been among Quaff’s top wineries. This year the performance is unparalleled, with 23 of the 26 Yalumba wines entered being featured in the book. Of the seven Y Series submitted, five were rated ‘Bloody Good’ and two ‘Good’. Once again, Yalumba was the top cask producer, with the top three whites and one of the top two reds. Twelve of its 15 casks are recommended and 10 of those are rated at ‘Good’ or better. The winery won Wine of the Year and was nominated for just about everything. Congratulations to the team from Yalumba.” Peter Forrestal

 

Yalumba Galway Traditional Shiraz 2007 "The Ultimate Australian Wine Under $15" and the "Wagyu Steak and Chips RED WINE OF THE YEAR"

"One of the high points of the tastings for Quaff was the shiraz class. As it happened, the three wines made at Yalumba - Galway Vintage Shiraz, Y Series Shiraz, Y Series Shiraz Viognier - were next to each other. I wondered what tasting I'd walked into, so brilliant were the three. Best of all was the Galway, This is the 64th vintage that Yalumba has released a Galway red, which for a wine at this price point is remarkable. I've tasted it each year since 2001 (or that's as far back as my database goes) and have liked it each year (except 2004) - and especially so in 2004 and 2002. But in the last couple of years the Y Series Shiraz Viognier and Shiraz have been so good it's been overshadowed. Not so in 2007. It has all the fragrance, depth, texture, structure and balance you'd want in an under-$15 red. It's made by Kevin Glastonbury and sourced from mighty Barossa. There are plenty of impressive rivals for the title - even at Yalumba - but the 2007 Yalumba Galway is the deserved winner of Quaff's Red Wine of the Year!" Peter Forrestal 

 

Follow these links to read Peter's reviews on the Yalumba wines featured in Quaff 2009.

Yalumba Christobel's Classic Dry White 2008

Yalumba Mawson's Wrattonbully Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Yalumba Y Series Viognier 2007

Yalumba Y Series Pinot Grigio 2008

Yalumba Y Series Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Yalumba Y Series Sangiovese Rosé 2007

Yalumba Y Series Shiraz 2007

Yalumba Y Series Cabernet Sauvignon 2007

Yalumba Y Series Merlot 2007

Yalumba Y Series Shiraz Viognier 2007

 

Want to receive Peter's regular Quaff "wine of the week" recommendations? Register at www.quaff.com.au

20 July 2008

When looking for a wine with "fidelity and versatility with food" choose Oxford Landing Sauvignon Blanc

4 Stars - "Perhaps there have been better vintages of this Riverland dry white. After all, 2008 in South Australia has been a very difficult year. And yet, I quite like this basic dry white for its varietal fidelity and versatility with food, especially Asian cuisines. It shows mild citrus, grassy, nectarine and passionfruit characters with a nudge of fresh acidity. As expected with the Oxford Landing range, the price is right."

Paddy Kendler, Herald-Sun - Drinks (Aus), 20 July 2008

Click here for more information on this wine.

17 July 2008

Heggies Vineyard Riesling 2008 flies the flag for Eden Valley as Best Dry White Wine

Eden Valley’s unique contribution to Australian Riesling has been reinforced with Heggies Vineyard Riesling 2008 taking

out the trophy for Best White Wine, current vintage at this year’s Royal Queensland Wine Show (AUS)

Heggies Vineyard winemaker, Peter Gambetta says the Queensland Show is a “litmus test” for new vintages.

“To recognise an Eden Valley Riesling again in a class of this calibre presents an honest argument that Eden Valley is the premium Riesling producing region in Australia.”

Through the use of innovative viticultural practices, working to capture the unique terroir of this challenging single site vineyard, Gambetta and the Heggies Viticultural team have produced a wine that is fine and balanced, with enduring mineral notes still evident long after the wine has been tasted.

"It's a tremendously challenging vineyard and not an easy one to manage. Each variety has its own programme of care according to its position in the vineyard. Working with the natural surroundings rather than against them is the driving force, with every factor taken into consideration, to try and capture the flavour and balance of the grapes in their purest essence" Gambetta says.

Click here to download Heggies Vineyard Eden Valley Riesling 2008 tasting note

15 July 2008

"BRILLIANT STUFF" - Yalumba Eden Valley Viognier

"After more than 20 years of growing and making the French white viognier, Yalumba can justifiably claim to have mastered the variety. In this case, a brilliant expression of the grape featuring typical apricot and peach characters enlivened by some lemony acidity. A portion of the final blend has been matured in older oak, which has contributed to the somewhat viscous texture. Winemaker Louisa Rose and her team have nailed it yet again."

Paddy Kendler, Herald Sun (Aus), 15 July 2008

Click here for winemaker notes

24 June 2008

Ralph Kyte-Powell reviews Pewsey Vale Prima Riesling 2007 - WINE OF THE WEEK - FIVE STARS

"Some influential Australian winemakers toyed with sweetness in their rieslings in the 1970's, and although their influence on public expectations of riesling has often been maligned since, the wines were very good. While sweetish riesling is common around the world, many Australian's don't regard local versions seriously. A pity, as they can be excellent. This example from South Australia's Eden Valley shows classic riesling aroma, a melange of apples, spice and lime with a slatey edge. In the mouth, a delicious thread of sweetness is moderated by intense varietal flavour and firm backbone, while a brisk Germanic acid balance keeps it light, fresh and lively." (9/5%, glass stopper) Ageing? drink over five years. Food ideas : pork rillettes; maki sushi. FIVE STARS. $$$

Ralph Kyte-Powell, The Age - Epicure (Aus), 24 June 2008

Click here for winemaker notes

18 June 2008

The Glenrothes Triumphs in Scotch Whisky Masters

"...Both The Glenrothes Select Reserve and The Glenrothes 1991 Vintage were named Scotch Whisky Masters, the very highest accolade available. A third variant of The Glenrothes, the 1978 Vintage won a Gold Medal..." Click here for more

18 June 2008

Marketing Society Award For The Glenrothes

The Glenrothes was voted the winner of the category 'Excellence in International Brand Development' at the 2008 Marketing Society Awards. This prestigious award is the latest in a remarkable year for the world's fastest growing single malt. Click here for more

16 June 2008

Yalumba The Virgilius and Pewsey Vale The Contours – TROPHY SUCCESS @ International Wine Challenge, London

Two of Australia’s ICON Eden Valley wines, Yalumba The Virgilius Viognier and Pewsey Vale The Contours Riesling both take home trophies and gold medals from the world’s largest wine show, held in London.

Yalumba The Virgilius Viognier 2007 [eden valley] was awarded the INTERNATIONAL VIOGNIER TROPHY & GOLD MEDAL, and Pewsey Vale The Contours Riesling 2002 [eden valley] received a trio of trophies and gold medals, winning the Australian White Wine TROPHY, South Australian White Wine TROPHY and the Eden Valley Wine TROPHY.

Winemaker Louisa Rose says, “Winning trophies at an International show of this scale, which brings together the very best judges, is testament to our work with the Viognier variety and the Pewsey Vale Vineyard.”

Rose continues, “Winning the top Viognier trophy (in the world) is fantastic recognition for Yalumba’s commitment in understanding this enchanting variety and sharing our wines with the world. Yalumba is a world leader in Viognier and The Virgilius, is our finest offering. The Contours goes without saying - it proves Pewsey’s provenance as a Riesling vineyard, and reinforces Riesling as the great white wine of Australia – not only as a young wine but with the ability to age gracefully.”

Now in it’s 25th year, the International Wine Challenge is judged by 400 plus, including 20 expert Panel Chairmen. The intensive program spans 2 weeks, tasting over 9000 wines from 40 different countries. Each wine is given the time and thought deserved to guarantee show results of the highest standard. The final analysis from the 5 Co-Chairmen ensures only the best wines succeed. The International Wine Challenge (IWC) has cemented its place as the best and biggest blind tasting in the world - and it only works through meticulous organisation.

What the judges had to say :

Yalumba The Virgilius Viognier 2007 [eden valley]

“Bright lemon green. Appealing fresh zesty nose of lime blossom and citrus. Fleshy yet fresh palate with balanced good length.”

Pewsey Vale The Contours Riesling 2002 [eden valley]

“Lovely yellow colour. Lime juice and lanolin, with hints of bottle age and perfectly balanced acidity. Excellent structure - youthful, yet distinguished.”

How the wines are scored - At all stages, wines are marked out of 100, with the following points corresponding to the relevant award: Gold 95 – 100 / Silver 90 – 94 / Bronze 85 – 89 / Commended 80 – 84

The success of both Yalumba The Virgilius Viognier 2007 and Pewsey Vale The Contours Riesling 2002 on this international scale is highly commendable.