Winestate Magazine November December 2016

travelbriefs have certainly responded to his share- plate style. “We’re one part local, one part global and one part special sauce, infusing fresh Hawke’s Bay produce with far-flung ideas to create dishes which will often surprise and always delight,” BeckCrossroads, Craggy Range, Clearview and visitors alike on Saturday mornings says. The Bistronomy menu changesEstate, Mission Estate, Sileni Estate, through summer. The market is open fromElephant Hill, Trinity Hill and Ngatarawa 9am-noon and the new season starts on seasonally and the emphasis is more onamong the standouts. Napier celebrates December 3. Visit blackbarn.com.its art deco heritage each February when fun than fine dining, with a bright younglocals dress up in 1930s gear, drive vintage IDEAL FOR A QUICK GETAWAYcars and listen to jazz. The city is alive with staff roster adding to the informality. Thecolourful activity. Since 1989 when the first NAPIER and surrounds offer a wide rangeArt Deco Weekend was celebrated, the of accommodation for wine lovers. John’s fit-out has brought back to life the iconicevent has grown into an international festival House and The Pavilion are two privatethat attracts more than 40,000 visitors to the getaways for short term stays in a garden Thorpe’s building in the heart of Napierseaside city and the surrounding region. setting just outside Havelock North. Set onAnother, more regular, attraction is New 2ha of informal gardens, each of the houses and the prices for both food and wineZealand’s oldest farmer’s market, held at occupies its own secluded space within thethe Hawke’s Bay Showgrounds in Hastings property. There is also a swimming pool remain affordable. Think “bites” like squidevery Sunday morning. for communal use in the owner’s nearby home. John’s House is a two-bedroom, tagliatelle with kalamata olives, raisinsBARN DELIVERS WITH two-bathroom oasis designed for twoREGIONAL FLAVOURS couples, or a family, while the The Pavilion and lemon, or a chicken wing with smoky has one bedroom with a super-sized bedA VISIT to the Black Barn cellar door, bistro and bathroom and is aimed at couples. crumbs and sweet chilli, or more substantialand kitchen is one of the highlights of any For details visit johnshouse.co.nz. Thevisit to Hawke’s Bay. properties are at 58 Miller Rd, Parkvale, dishes like pan-fried red snapper with broth Hastings; phone +64 6 877 7494. This boutique vineyard, five minutes from and summer vegetables or char-grilledHavelock North, has a range of luxury A total contrast in style are The Domeaccommodation and many of its wines are Apartments, a boutique establishment lamb rump, witloof and smoked eel broth.available only though its cellar door. Visitors in the heart of Napier offering Art Deco-are welcome to taste wines, have lunch at style waterfront studio and apartment Bistronomy is at 40 Hastings St, Napier;the Bistro or buy takeaway gourmet goods accommodation for a variety of budgets.and kitchen implements from the Kitchen. There are three studios and four apartments phone +64 06 834 4309 or visit bistronomy.The Barn Bistro is in the heart of the vineyard to choose from at 101 Marine Parade,surrounded by vines, and a table on the Napier; phone +64 6 835 0707 or visit co.nz. It is open Wednesday-Sunday fromlarge generous veranda lets guests look thedome.co.nz.out across the region. For warmer days, 11am-late. there is a delightful courtyard. The menu SEASONAL FAREhas an emphasis on freshly grown Hawke’s Left top: Black Barn Kitchen.Bay produce and the selection changes BISTRONOMY in Napier is the latest dining Above: Bistronomy interior view, Napier.with the seasons. While the Bistro offers venture from chef and forager James Opposite page left: Craggy Range External View.casual lunches, on Friday evenings it puts Beck, and the hip but casual eatery has Opposite page right: Art Deco Masonic Hotel Suite.on its chic face and is transformed for an proved an immediate success. Beckintimate dinner experience. The Growers’ says he aims to make “everyday eatingMarket has become a “must-do” for locals a little bit extraordinary” - and the crowds November/December 2016 W I N E S TAT E 101

158 TASTED130 AWARDEDH AW K E S B AYA truly memorable tasting. New Zealand’s second-largest wine Crossroadsregion has enjoyed a trot of favourable vintages, yielding top-flight Winemakerschardonnays in 2013, 2014 and 2015. The 2013 and 2014 reds are Collection Hawke'salso among the best ever, featuring rich, but not heavy, merlot and Bay Chardonnaycabernet-based wines, and exciting syrahs. Could the great Rhone 2014 HHHHHValley variety be the future of Hawke's Bay reds? Fine, elegant style, weighty, with a slightlyPrices shown are approximate New Zealand retail. Wines available smoky bouquet andin export markets are shown as (A) Australia, (UK) and (US). fresh, vibrant peach and grapefruit flavours. Tightly structured, with a long finish. Youthful wine, well worth cellaring. $40 (A)SPARKLING Junction CHARDONNAY Askerne Reserve Esk Valley Persistence Hawke's Bay Winemakers Reserve2 TASTED 2014 HHH1/2 36 TASTED Chardonnay Hawke's Bay2 AWARDED Very fresh, vivacious 27 AWARDED 2014 HHHHH Chardonnay blend of riesling, flora Fleshy, rich wine, 2015 HHHHHOsawa Prestige and gewürztraminer, A strong class - as usual. hand-picked and Highly fragrant, with aCollection Methode grown at altitude in The judges discovered barrel-fermented (45% hint of ‘struck match’,Traditionnelle Central Hawke's Bay, several distinguished new). Weighty and this classy wine wasNV HHHH barrel-fermented, oak- chardonnays from the well-rounded, with grown at two sitesFragrant, complex aged for nine months 2014 and 2015 vintages, concentrated, citrusy, in northern Hawke'sHawke's Bay wine, and then carbonated. together with lots of slightly spicy and nutty Bay (including the Eskfrom equal portions Aromatic and slightly excellent, four-star wines flavours, showing Valley home block),of chardonnay and sweet, with strong, in the $NZ20 - or even excellent complexity and and fermented andpinot noir, grown lively, limey, zingy less - category. depth. $30 matured for 11 monthsat Maraekakaho. flavours. $22 in French oak barriquesAttractively scented, (30% new). Elegant andwith crisp, lively, citrusy, weighty, it is youthful,yeasty, slightly toasty with rich, peachy, citrusyflavours, showing good and mealy flavours,intensity. $60 impressive complexity and a sustained finish. Well worth cellaring. $32 (UK, US)JUDGES - DAY 1 Michael Ivicevich Nick Picone Chief winemaker for Appointed Group Michael Cooper Oyster Bay Wines Chief Winemaker Winestate’s New Zealand and Delegat’s Wine of Villa Maria in editor is the author of the Estate, Michael 2015, Nick oversees internationally acclaimed Wine is a senior judge all the company’s Atlas of New Zealand and the and panel leader winemaking, annual New Zealand Wines: in New Zealand including Vidal, Michael Cooper’s Buyer’s competitions. His Esk Valley, Te Awa Guide. In the 2004 New parents own West and Thornbury. Year Honours, Michael was Brook Winery, based He is based in the appointed an Officer of the in Auckland. Hawke's Bay region. New Zealand Order of Merit.102 W I N E S TAT E November/December 2016

regional tastingMills Reef Elspeth Osawa Winemakers Esk Valley Hawke's Villa Maria Cellar Sacred Hill ReserveGimblett Gravels Collection Hawke's Bay Chardonnay Selection Hawke's Hawke's BayHawke's Bay Bay Chardonnay 2015 HHHH Bay Chardonnay ChardonnayChardonnay 2014 HHHH1/2 This generous, sweet- 2015 HHHH 2015 HHH1/22014 HHHHH Rich, creamy style, fruited wine offers Bargain-priced, this Fresh, citrusy, crispFragrant, tightly grown at Maraekakaho. great value. Fully refined, youthful wine wine, grown at thestructured wine with Fragrant, mealy bouquet, barrel-fermented (15% was almost entirely Riflemans Terracevibrant, ripe fruit and showing a hint of new), it is mouthfilling, (95%) fermented in vineyard and barrel-toasty oak aromas, maturity. Softly textured, with grapefruit and French oak barrels fermented. Moderatelyshowing good with a long, full palate. peach flavours, a subtle (25% new). Instantly complex style with acomplexity. Minerally, Praised by one judge as seasoning of oak, fresh appealing, it is gentle oak influence andslightly flinty palate, with “very tasty!”. $85 acidity and a slightly fragrant, fresh and a finely textured, tightcrisp, citrusy flavours, a Babich Irongate mealy, finely textured finely balanced, with finish. $25hint of nuts and a long, Chardonnay finish. $20 (UK) ripe, citrusy, biscuity Tiki Koro Hawke'srefined finish. $41 2014 HHHH Mission Hawke's flavours, showing good Bay ChardonnayVilla Maria Reserve Elegant, estate-grown, Bay Chardonnay complexity, a hint of 2014 HHH1/2Hawke's Bay Gimblett Gravels wine. 2015 HHHH ‘struck match’ and a Slightly smoky, barrel-Chardonnay Vibrant, ripe, grapefruit- Skilfully crafted, with a finely textured, dry fermented wine (French,2015 HHHHH like flavours to the fore, slightly buttery bouquet, finish. $18 70% new), withElegant, youthful wine, with subtle mealy notes this full-bodied wine Alpha Domus First youthful, pale lemon/grown mostly (73%) in and well-integrated has peachy, slightly Solo Hawke's Bay green colour. Citrusy andthe Lyons vineyard, in oak adding complexity, toasty flavours, showing Chardonnay sweetly oaked, with athe Gimblett Gravels, lively acidity and good excellent depth and 2014 HHH1/2 tightly structured finish.and barrel-fermented harmony. $37 harmony. “Long and fine,” Fleshy, flavoursome Worth cellaring. $33(French, 45% new). Clearview Coastal noted one judge. Great wine, estate-grown in Vidal ReserveSlightly smoky bouquet, Hawke's Bay value. $18 (A, UK) the Bridge Pa Triangle Hawke's Baywith ripe, grapefruit- Chardonnay Mission Jewelstone and French oak- Chardonnaylike flavours, showing 2015 HHHH Hawke's Bay fermented (25% new). 2015 HHH1/2excellent delicacy Elegant, partly barrel- Chardonnay Weighty and sweet- Fresh and lively, barrel-and complexity. fermented style, grown 2015 HHHH fruited, with ripe, citrusy, fermented wine withTightly structured and at Te Awanga. Fresh Powerful, rich wine with peachy flavours and a very good depth ofrefreshing, with obvious and finely poised, a hint of butterscotch, well-rounded finish. $26 citrusy flavours andcellaring potential. $32 with strong, ripe, hand-picked, barrel- (A, UK, US) savoury, biscuity notesVilla Maria Single citrusy flavours and fermented (French, 26% Coopers Creek SV adding complexity.Vineyard Keltern considerable complexity. new) and lees-aged for Plainsman Hawke's $20 (A, UK)Hawke's Bay Fine value. $19 10 months. Weighty, Bay Chardonnay Mission VineyardChardonnay Coopers Creek SV with ripe, grapefruit-like 2015 HHH1/2 Selection Hawke's2015 HHHHH Limeworks Hawke's flavours, finely integrated Finely balanced for Bay ChardonnayPowerful, with youthful, Bay Chardonnay oak, a slightly creamy current drinking, this full- 2016 HHHvibrant, citrusy, peachy 2015 HHHH texture and a lengthy bodied wine was fully Attractive from the start,flavours, well-integrated Vibrantly fruity style, finish. $40 (A, UK) fermented in seasoned this ‘lightly oaked’ wineoak (French, 35% fully barrel-fermented Te Awa Single oak barrels and most is mouthfilling, withnew) and a long finish. (American, 50% new). Estate Hawke's Bay (90%) of the blend went plenty of fresh, ripe,Slightly smoky notes Fresh, tightly structured Chardonnay through a softening citrusy flavour. $20add complexity. Weighty, and moderately 2015 HHHH malolactic fermentation. Osawa Prestigefresh, intense and tightly complex, with a nutty Full-bodied, youthful Fresh and weighty, it’s Collection Hawke'sstructured, with a long oak influence and very wine, fermented in a peachy, moderately Bay Chardonnayfuture ahead. $40 (UK) good depth, vigour and French oak hogsheads complex style with a 2015 HHHClearview harmony. $25 and lees-aged for 10 hint of butterscotch and Citrusy, slightlyBeachhead Hawke's Coopers Creek months. Grapefruit-like satisfying depth. $22 limey wine, grown atBay Chardonnay Swamp Reserve flavours, with a subtle Left Field Hawke's Maraekakaho, with2015 HHHH1/2 Hawke's Bay oak influence, smoky Bay Chardonnay mouthfilling body,Fragrant, with ripe, Chardonnay notes, good acid spine 2015 HHH1/2 grapefruit-like flavourssweet fruit and 2014 HHHH and excellent depth. From Te Awa, this is an and a subtle oakcreamy oak aromas. Powerful, rich style, Best drinking mid-2017+. elegant, partly barrel- seasoning. $50Mouthfilling, with rich, fermented in French oak $25 fermented, fully barrel- Vidal Estatepeachy, slightly spicy casks (40% new) and Tiki Single Vineyard aged (for six months) Hawke's Bayflavours and smoky given a full, softening Hawke's Bay style. The bouquet is Chardonnaynotes adding complexity. malolactic fermentation. Chardonnay slightly smoky; the 2015 HHHWeighty, finely textured Pale gold, with sweet- 2014 HHHH palate mouthfilling, Full-bodied, partly barrel-and lingering. Great fruit flavours, a strong Fresh and finely citrusy, slightly nutty and fermented style withvalue. $27 seasoning of toasty oak balanced, with strong, dry, with fresh acidity peach and grapefruit and a creamy-textured, grapefruit-like flavours keeping things lively. flavours and slightly lengthy finish. $39 (UK) and a subtle seasoning $18 smoky notes adding of oak (French, 40% a touch of complexity. new). Elegant style, with Ready to roll. $16 (UK) very good vigour and depth. $23 November/December 2016 W I N E S TAT E 103

H AW K E S B AYPINOT GRIS Church Road Junction Pastime Linden Estate Sileni Estate Hawke's Bay Pinot Central Hawke's Bay Hawke's Bay Selection8 TASTED Gris 2016 HHH Pinot Gris 2015 HHH Viognier Hedonist Hawke's6 AWARDED Fleshy and smooth, in a Ripely scented, with 2014 HHHHH Bay Viognier mouthfilling style with mouthfilling body and Rich, creamy textured, 2015 HHH1/2A solid class, in which gentle sweetness, a good depth of fresh, fully barrel-fermented Pale, youthful wine withmost award winners slightly oily texture and slightly sweet, peachy, wine, weighty and subtle, citrusy flavours,showed good body and ripe, stonefruit and spice spicy flavours. $22 complex. Light yellow, showing good delicacydepth of ripe, stonefruit flavours. $20 with concentrated, and length, a hint ofand spice flavours, more Clearview Mission Hawke's ripe apricot and spice almond and a floralin the traditional style of Haumoana Hawke's Bay Pinot Gris flavours, showing bouquet. $25Alsace, rather than pinot Bay Pinot Gris 2015 HHH excellent depth and Villa Maria Cellargrigio. 2015 HHH Full-bodied, with a lightly harmony, gentle acidity, Selection Hawke's Lively, crisp, slightly fragrant bouquet and slight toastiness and Bay ViognierAskerne Hawke's minerally style with a fresh acidity woven a well-rounded, dryish 2015 HHH1/2Bay Pinot Gris splash of sweetness and through ripe, peachy, finish. $25 Youthful, finely balanced2015 HHHH strong, citrusy, slightly spicy flavours. $18 Askerne Hawke's wine, with moderatelySoft and generous, peachy flavours. $19 (A, UK) Bay Viognier concentrated, ripein a finely textured Esk Valley Hawke's 2015 HHHH flavours, a hint ofstyle with mouthfilling Bay Pinot Gris VIOGNIER Rich, weighty, complex apricot, a touch ofbody, concentrated, 2016 HHH wine, fully barrel- complexity from barrelpeachy flavours, gentle Softly mouthfilling style 5 TASTED fermented (20 per cent fermentation (60 persweetness, and a floral, with a spicy bouquet. 5 AWARDED new). Fragrant bouquet, cent), gentle acidity andslightly honeyed and Fresh, peachy flavours, with concentrated a fully dry finish. Worthtoasty bouquet. $22 with a touch of oak adding A small but rewarding stonefruit flavours, cellaring. $18 complexity (30 per cent of class, in which the top- gently seasoned with the blend was fermented scoring wines displayed toasty oak, and a slightly in seasoned barriques), excellent weight creamy texture. $22 gentle acidity and a dry and richness, with a finish (3.7 grams/litre seductively smooth residual sugar). texture. $20 (UK)ALDI’s collection aFlSdOTINROAi.VRSDcAEEEoLSITLmE,AACVIBTLI.SESaLIDETuof premium wines atnot-so-premium prices AUSTRALIA Margaret River W.A. McLaren Vale S.A.9$ 99 9$ 99 9$ 99 9$ 99 ea ea ea ea A.C. Byrne & Co A.C. Byrne & Co A.C. Byrne & Co A.C. Byrne & CoMargaret River Semillon Margaret River Margaret River McLaren Vale Shiraz 750mlSauvignon Blanc 750ml Chardonnay 750ml Cabernet Merlot 750ml Classically McLaren Vale with concentratedClassically Margaret River with Modern and wonderfully expressive Rich and opulent with generous wild berry, blackberry and blueberryexpressive fruits of citrus blossom, with citrus blossom, white peach flavours of blackberry, plum and soft flavours finishing with light spice, chocolatelemon, passionfruit, herbs and tropical and nectarine fruits and a delicate dark fruits. A wine with charm, and clove characters.fruits with an underlying minerality. integration of French oak. elegance and flavour through the finish. A wine of richness and generosity.ALDI supports the responsible service of alcohol. It is illegal to purchase alcohol for people under 18.Available in selected stores. See aldi.com.au for locations. While stocks last — Please note stocks are limited and will vary between stores.104ALC7501W_WiIneNstaEte_SMaTg.AindTd E1 November/December 2016 20/01/16 10:06 AM

regional tastingAlpha Domus The Askerne Hawke's Clearview Estate Te Junction Runaway Villa Maria CellarWingwalker Hawke's Bay Gewurztraminer Awanga Hawke's Riesling 2015 HHH Selection Hawke'sBay Viognier 2015 HHHH Bay Sauvignon Scented, citrusy wine, Bay Arneis2014 HHH Gently perfumed, Blanc 2016 HHH grown at altitude in 2015 HHHHFully dry style, made mouthfilling, well-rounded Pale, with a fresh, limey Central Hawke's Bay. Lively, aromatic, stronglywith some use of oak. wine, in an easy-drinking bouquet. Medium- Crisp and refreshing, varietal wine with goodMouthfilling and smooth, style with a gentle splash bodied, with good depth with clearcut varietal intensity of fresh, tropicalwith ripe stonefruit and of sweetness (11 grams/ of ripely herbaceous characters, a sliver of fruit flavours and a crisp,spice flavours, a touch litre residual sugar), plenty flavours and a well- sweetness and appetising dry, persistent finish.of complexity and good of ripe, citrusy, spicy rounded finish. $19 acidity. $22 Good value. $18freshness and length. flavour, and excellent$26 (A, UK, US) harmony. $22 RIESLING OTHER WHITES SWEET WHITESGEWURZTRAMINER SAUVIGNON 2 TASTED 2 TASTED3 TASTED BLANC 2 AWARDED 2 AWARDED 5 TASTED2 AWARDED 3 AWARDED 3 TASTED Mission Hawke's Esk ValleyMission Hawke's 2 AWARDED Bay Riesling Gimblett Gravels A small but impressiveBay Gewurztraminer 2015 HHHH Hawke's Bay class, showing Hawke's2015 HHHH1/2 Sileni Cellar Single-vineyard wine, Verdelho Bay’s ability to makeMouthfilling, medium- Selection Hawke's showing good intensity. 2015 HHHH classy sweet winesdry style (15 grams/ Bay Sauvignon Aromatic, with strong, Mouthfilling, dry wine from a range oflitre residual sugar), Blanc 2016 HHH1/2 ripe, citrusy flavours and (4.6 grams/litre residual varieties.with fresh, youthful, Fresh and light, with a finely balanced, off-dry, sugar), with ripe, citrusy,well-spiced flavours, strong, passionfruit-like lingering finish. Fine limey flavours to thelively acidity and a richly aromas (described by value. $18 (UK) fore, fresh and lively,perfumed bouquet. one judge as ‘slightly and a very subtle oakBargain-priced. sweaty’). Lively, with influence (40 per cent$18 (UK) ripely herbaceous barrel-fermented). Worth flavours, moderate cellaring. $20 (UK). acidity and plenty of easy-drinking appeal. $20 Did you know? November/December 2016 W I N E S TAT E 105

H AW K E S B AYAlpha Domus ROSÉ PINOT NOIR Babich The Patriarch Osawa PrestigeAD Noble Selection 2014 HHHH1/2 Collection Hawke's2015 (375ml) 7 TASTED 3 TASTED Dark, sturdy, Bay CabernetHHHHH 5 AWARDED 1 AWARDED concentrated blend Sauvignon MerlotThis pale gold beauty is of Gimblett Gravels 2013 HHHHfrom sémillon, grown in A small, attractive class Coopers Creek cabernet sauvignon, Concentrated, ripe,the Bridge Pa Triangle of fresh, lively, current- Hawke's Bay Pinot malbec and merlot. Rich slightly earthy, 50/50and mostly harvested at vintage rosés. The top- Noir 2015 HHH1/2 array of blackcurrant, blend of cabernet45-47 brix. Fresh, lively rated wines showed Generous, supple wine, plum, spice and herb sauvignon and merlot,and crisp, it is full-bodied excellent vibrancy, deep ruby in hue, with flavours, sweet-fruited grown at Maraekakaho.(although only 10% delicacy and charm. very satisfying depth and tightly structured, Some slightly herby andalc/vol), with rich, ripe of vibrant, plummy, with a lingering finish. gamey notes, but fleshy,flavours, showing good Church Road slightly herbal flavours. $75 (A) rich and complex. $60complexity, plentiful Hawke's Bay Rosé $18 (US) Clearview Old Olivesweetness (248 grams/ 2016 HHHH Block 2014 HHHH1/2 Saint Clair Hawke'slitre residual sugar), Bright pink, full-bodied CABERNET Bold, youthful, Hawke's Bay Gimblettand an oily, honeyed wine, fragrant and fresh, SAUVIGNON & Bay blend of cabernet Gravels Cabernetrichness. $38 (A, US) with vibrant berry and BLENDS sauvignon (73%), merlot Merlot 2014 HHHH spice flavours, a hint of (21%) and malbec (6%). Boldly coloured blendEsk Valley Late watermelon and a dryish 11 TASTED Blackcurrant, plum and of cabernet sauvignonHarvest Hawke's Bay finish. $20 10 AWARDED spice flavours, a hint (84%) and merlot (16%),Chenin Blanc 2013 of herbs, and excellent partly American oak-(375ml) HHHH1/2 Clearview Black A very strong class, density and structure. aged. ConcentratedDelicious now, this Reef Blush underlining the Hawke's Well worth cellaring. $36 blackcurrant, plum andelegant, gold/amber 2016 HHHH Bay region’s ability in Saint Clair Pioneer spice flavours, with awine was hand-picked Instantly appealing warm growing seasons, Block 17 Plateau firm finish. Fresh andin late May and partly Hawke's Bay wine, with such as 2014, to produce Gimblett Gravels youthful. $27barrel-fermented. Rich, chambourcin, a well- exceptional cabernet Cabernet Merlotpeachy and honeyed, regarded French hybrid, sauvignons and cabernet 2014 HHHH1/2 Sacred Hillit is sweet (204 grams/ contributing bright pink/ sauvignon-based blends. Dark, concentrated Helmsmanlitre residual sugar), pale red colour. Fleshy blend of cabernet 2014 HHH1/2with balanced acidity and vibrantly fruity, with Vidal Legacy sauvignon (71%) and Full-coloured, youthfuland a fragrant, inviting fresh, berryish, plummy Gimblett Gravels merlot (29%), American blend of cabernetbouquet of apricot and flavours and a smooth, Hawke's Bay oak-aged (50% new). sauvignon (54%), merlotraisins. $30 long finish. $21 Cabernet Sauvignon Slightly green-edged, (42%) and cabernet 2014 HHHHH but weighty, ripe and franc (4%), French oak-Osawa Prestige Esk Valley Hawke's Full-coloured, highly rich, with impressive aged (50% new) for 18Collection Bay Rosé concentrated red, density and length. $38 months. Strong plum,Late Harvest 2016 HHH1/2 estate-grown in the Babich Irongate spice and herb flavours,Gewurztraminer Bright pink, tasty, merlot- Omahu Gravels vineyard Cabernet Merlot with firm, slightly drying2013 (375ml) HHHH based rosé, vibrantly and matured for 20 Franc 2014 HHHH tannins. $85Gold, with a hint of fruity, with red berry, months in French oak Generous, suppleamber, this soft, sweet watermelon and spice barriques (50% new). Gimblett Gravels blend. MERLOT &wine was grown flavours and a fresh, Rich blackcurrant, plum Elegant, medium to BLENDSat Maraekakaho, in crisp, almost bone-dry and spice flavours, full-bodied style with ripeHawke's Bay. Drinking finish. $20 (UK) with the delights of berry, plum and spice 36 TASTEDwell now, it is floral, ripe, sweet fruit, firm, flavours, tightly structured 32 AWARDEDpeachy and spicy, with Mission Hawke's structured tannins and a and youthful. $37bottle-aged complexity Bay Rosé 2016 HHH lasting finish. Should be Mission Reserve A strong class, featuringand a rich, well-rounded Attractive, bright pink long-lived. $70 Gimblett Gravels many elegant, richfinish. $29 blend, based on merlot Hawke's Bay wines. The notably (55%), with smaller Villa Maria Reserve Cabernet Merlot warm, early-ripening amounts of syrah, Gimblett Gravels 2013 HHHH 2014 vintage yielded malbec, cabernet franc Cabernet Sauvignon Deeply coloured blend a host of beautifully and cabernet sauvignon. Merlot 2014 HHHHH of cabernet sauvignon ripe, but not heavy, Fresh, light, berryish and Dark, dense blend of (49%), merlot (45%) reds, including plenty smooth, with drink- cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc (6%), of classy wines in the young charm. $18 (75%) and merlot French oak-aged for 15 lower price categories. (25%), matured for 18 months. Sweet-fruited, Villa Maria Private months in French oak with firm, berryish Bin Hawke's Bay barriques (40% new). flavours, hint of thyme Rosé 2016 HHH Highly concentrated, and leather, and good Pale pink, off-dry style, with pure blackcurrant, density. $25 (A, UK) made principally from plum and spice flavours, merlot. Easy-drinking, showing lovely weight, medium-bodied wine, ripeness and structure. with fresh, delicate Full of cellaring plum, watermelon and potential. $50 (UK) spice flavours and a finely balanced, smooth finish. $16 (UK, US)106 W I N E S TAT E November/December 2016

regional tastingVilla Maria Cellar Babich Winemakers Saint Clair Pioneer Coopers Creek AskerneSelection Hawke's Reserve Hawke's Block 17 Plateau Hawke's Bay Merlot Merlot CabernetBay Merlot Cabernet Bay Merlot Gimblett Gravels 2013 HHHH Franc CabernetSauvignon 2014 HHHH1/2 Hawke's Bay Merlot Elegant, medium- Sauvignon Malbec2014 HHHHH Finely poised, savoury 2014 HHHH1/2 bodied style with plenty 2015 HHH1/2Dark, youthful blend of red, grown in the Powerful, fragrant, of fresh, ripe berry, Deeply coloured, supple,merlot (60%), cabernet Gimblett Gravels. Deep youthful red, estate- plum, spice and nut drink-young blend ofsauvignon (32%) and ruby, with concentrated, grown and matured in flavour, supple tannins, merlot (65%) withcabernet franc (8%), ripe flavours, showing American oak (43% and a finely balanced, cabernet franc, cabernetmatured for 20 months very good complexity, new). Deeply coloured, lingering finish. Good sauvignon, malbec andin French oak barriques and the structure to age with red berry, plum, value. $20 petit verdot, barrel-aged(15% new). Vibrantly well. (One judge scored spice, licorice and nut Linden Estate for 10 months. Strongfruity, with strong, it five stars.) $30 flavours, gentle tannins, Reserve Hawke's plum and spice flavours,very pure plum/spice Coopers Creek and excellent weight, Bay Merlot showing some savouryflavours, silky tannins SV Gravels and ripeness and richness. 2014 HHHH complexity. $22and a lasting finish. Metals Hawke's Bay “Lots to like,” enthused Weighty, generous red, Clearview EnigmaFinely balanced and Merlot Malbec one judge. $38 estate-grown in the Esk 2014 HHH1/2approachable. Great 2014 HHHH1/2 Vidal Reserve Valley and French oak- Fragrant, dark, Hawke'svalue. $18 (US) Youthful, purple/black Gimblett Gravels matured. Savoury, with Bay blend of merlotVilla Maria Reserve blend of merlot (77%) Hawke's Bay Merlot ripe plum/spice flavours, (66%), malbec (16%)Gimblett Gravels and malbec (23%). Cabernet Sauvignon hints of licorice and tar, and cabernet francHawke's Bay Merlot Concentrated plum 2014 HHHH1/2 and good complexity and (16%), matured in oak2014 HHHHH and spice flavours, Bargain-priced, dark concentration. $48 (A) (40% new). DeeplyBuilt for cellaring, with a hint of licorice, blend of merlot (64%), Mission Reserve coloured, with strongthis classy, dark, a strong, sweet oak cabernet sauvignon Hawke's Bay Merlot plum, blackcurrant andvery youthful red is influence and a long, (25%), malbec (10%) 2014 HHHH herb flavours, someconcentrated and firmly soft finish. Praised by and cabernet franc (1%), Generous red from the savoury and funkystructured, with rich, one judge as “full- matured for 20 months Gimblett Gravels, with notes, and a firmlybeautifully ripe red and bored”. $25 (A, UK) in French oak barrels plum, spice and nutty structured finish. $55black berry fruit flavours, Esk Valley (25% new). Fragrant and oak flavours, showing Esk Valleyseasoned with spicy Winemakers Reserve youthful, with strong, good complexity and Gimblett Gravelsoak. Weighty, dense and Gimblett Gravels ripe berry, plum, spice harmony. Weighty, ripe Merlot Cabernetcomplex, with obvious Merlot Malbec and dried herb flavours, and rich. $25 (A, UK) Sauvignon Malbecpotential. $50 (UK) Cabernet Franc and a fresh, lengthy Saint Clair Hawke's 2015 HHH1/2Villa Maria Single 2014 HHHH1/2 finish. $20 Bay Merlot Easy-drinking blendVineyard Braided Powerful, concentrated Clearview Cape 2014 HHHH of merlot (44%),Gravels Gimblett blend of merlot (54%) Kidnappers Hawke's Floral, deeply coloured, cabernet sauvignonGravels Organic with malbec (31%), Bay Merlot single-vineyard (30%), malbec (22%)Merlot 2013 HHHHH cabernet franc (10%) 2015 HHHH Gimblett Gravels red, and cabernet francMaturing very gracefully and cabernet sauvignon Finely textured, American oak-matured. (4%). Full-coloured andand still youthful, this (5%), estate-grown in ageworthy, merlot- Mouthfilling, with ripe vibrantly fruity, withdensely coloured red the Gimblett Gravels based red, with 10% blackcurrant, plum fresh, plummy, slightlyhas concentrated, and matured for 18 malbec. Weighty, with and spice flavours, herbal flavours, a gentleripe, slightly nutty months in French oak strong, ripe plum and showing some savoury seasoning of biscuityand leathery flavours, barriques (40% new). spice flavours, a hint of complexity, and soft oak (40% new), and veryshowing impressive Very full-bodied, with a fruit cake, cedary oak tannins. Praised by one good balance and depth.complexity, and very strong surge of ripe dark in evidence, and good judge as “moreish”. $20 (UK, US)fine-grained tannins. berry and plum flavours, richness and roundness. $25 Linden EstateWeighty, rich and long, it savoury notes adding $19 Villa Maria Private Hawke's Bay Merlotshould be long-lived. $60 complexity, supple Bin Hawke's Bay 2013 HHH1/2Te Awa Single Estate tannins, and a rich, Merlot 2015 HHHH Supple, generous red,Hawke's Bay Merlot rounded finish. $60 (UK) Deeply coloured, firm, estate-grown in the EskCabernet Sauvignon youthful red, with Valley and French oak-2014 HHHHH strong, ripe plum/spice aged. Deeply colouredDark, elegant blend of flavours. Rich, with a and weighty, withmerlot and cabernet subtle oak influence and berryish, slightly herbalsauvignon, French oak- soft tannins. Bargain- flavours, strong andaged for 20 months. priced. $16 (UK) smooth. $30 (A)Rich blackcurrant, plumand spice flavours, withsavoury, earthy notesadding complexity andripe, supple tannins.Well worth cellaring. $30 November/December 2016 W I N E S TAT E 107

H AW K E S B AYMission Babich Hawke's Bay Sacred Hill Reserve Villa Maria Reserve Sileni EstateJewelstone Antoine Merlot Cabernet Merlot Cabernet Gimblett Gravels Selection2014 HHH1/2 2015 HHH Sauvignon Hawke's Bay Malbec Pacemaker Hawke'sDeeply coloured blend of Medium-bodied, ruby- 2014 HHH 2013 HHHHH Bay Cabernet Francmerlot (70%), cabernet hued blend with good Youthful, bright-coloured Notably dark, rich and 2014 HHHsauvignon (25%) and depth of plum, spice blend of merlot (79%) youthful red, matured Full-coloured andcabernet franc (5%), and herb flavours, some and cabernet sauvignon for well over a year in mouthfilling, with goodgrown in the Gimblett savoury oak, and an (21%), with strong plum French oak barrels (60% depth of berryish, spicy,Gravels, Hawke's Bay, early-drinking appeal. and herb flavours to the new). Concentrated, herby and nutty flavours.and matured in French $22 fore and firm tannins. with beautifully ripe Slightly leafy, but softlyoak casks (55% new). Church Road $25 plum, dark chocolate textured, with someFresh blackcurrant, plum Hawke's Bay Merlot and licorice flavours, riper fruit notes. “Veryand spice flavours, with Cabernet Malbec Villa Maria Cellar fairly firm tannins and varietal,” according tosavoury notes adding 2014 HHH Selection Organic a lasting finish. Very one judge. $37complexity, and a smooth Deeply coloured, Hawke's Bay Merlot ageworthy. $60finish. $50 (A, UK) full-flavoured, tightly 2014 HHH Mission Reserve SYRAHSacred Hill structured blend with Youthful, full-coloured, Hawke's BayBrokenstone some herbal notes, a Gimblett Gravels red Cabernet Franc 28 TASTED2014 HHH1/2 biscuity oak influence with strong berry/spice 2013 HHHH 23 AWARDEDFruit-packed, supple, and firm tannins. $20 flavours, slightly earthy Elegant, youthful, An exciting class, raisingmerlot-based blend Haha Hawke's Bay and herbal notes, and a savoury red, with full the possibility that syrah(83%), matured in Merlot 2015 HHH smooth finish. $18 but not dense colour. is the best, long-termFrench oak casks (33% Youthful, vibrantly Ripe plum and spice prospect for Hawke'snew). Full-coloured, fruity red, barrel-aged OTHER REDS flavours, showing Bay reds, ahead ofwith strong, ripe red for six months. Floral, good complexity merlot. Having said that,berry, plum and spice with strong, plummy 9 TASTED (French oak, 30% new, the unusual warmthflavours. $50 flavours, hints of spices 8 AWARDED for 15 months) and of the 2014 growingSileni Cellar and herbs, restrained a persistent, well- season was a key factorSelection Hawke's oak and gentle tannins. A small but stimulating structured finish. $25 in the results.Bay Merlot $17 class, demonstrating Saint Clair Pioneer2015 HHH1/2 Left Field Hawke's the region’s ability to Block 17 Plateau Church RoadGenerous, youthful Bay Merlot produce impressive Gimblett Gravels McDonald Serieswine, full-coloured, 2014 HHH reds from classic, but Hawke's Bay Malbec Hawke's Bay Syrahwith fresh plum, spice Slightly herby and still rare - in Hawke's 2014 HHHH 2014 HHHHHand herb flavours, and earthy red, blended Bay - grapes, such Fragrant, deeply Bold, dense colour,finely balanced tannins. from estate-grown as tempranillo and coloured, youthful red with a fragrant bouquetAttractive, moderately merlot (85%), cabernet grenache, and longer- with a strong surge of of spices and licorice.complex red, described sauvignon (10%) and established, but plummy, spicy flavours Highly concentrated,by one judge as a “more cabernet franc (5%), still fairly low-profile and slightly rustic, with good weight, rich,Bordeaux style”. Worth French oak-aged for varieties, such as earthy, meaty notes. very ripe plum, spicecellaring. $19 a year. Medium to cabernet franc and Best drinking mid-2017+. and licorice flavours,Thornbury Hawke's full-bodied, with good malbec. (One judge scored it five and a firm backbone ofBay Merlot freshness and flavour stars.) $38 tannin. Best drinking2015 HHH1/2 depth. $25 (UK) Crossroads Talisman Villa Maria Cellar 2017+. $27Floral, fruit-packed, Ngatarawa Stables 2013 HHHHH Selection Hawke'syouthful red, matured Reserve Hawke's From a mystery blend, Bay Grenachefor 10 months with Bay Merlot this is a dense, dark 2014 HHHHFrench and American 2015 HHH Hawke's Bay red with Full-coloured, tightlyoak staves. Plenty Full-coloured, berryish, a complex bouquet of structured red,of plummy, spicy slightly herbal red with red and black fruits, mouthfilling (14.5%flavour, with a touch plenty of flavour and a seasoned with cedary alc/vol), with youthful,of complexity and moderately firm finish. oak. Showing lovely berryish, slightly earthymoderately firm tannins. $19 freshness and finesse, flavours and firmFine value. $15 Sacred Hill Halo it’s a classy, finely tannins. Still youthful.Vidal Hawke's Bay Hawke's Bay Merlot balanced wine, tight and $25Merlot Cabernet Cabernet Sauvignon very ageworthy. $56 (A) Coopers CreekSauvignon 2014 HHH Four Daughters2014 HHH1/2 One judge praised this Te Awa Single 2013 HHHFresh, lively, vibrantly wine for its concentrated Estate Hawke's Bay Youthful Hawke's Bayfruity blend of merlot plum/spice flavours Tempranillo blend of roughly equal(83%), cabernet and tannin backbone, 2014 HHHHH portions of malbec,sauvignon (12%) and while another found Classy, youthful red, cabernet franc, syrah andmalbec (5%), partly some savoury, nutty full-coloured, with strong merlot. Fullish colour,barrel-matured. Medium- complexities, but two berry and spice flavours, with ripe, moderately richbodied, with plummy judges noted premature well-integrated oak berry and spice flavours,flavours, hints of cassis development. $28 adding complexity, and a smooth finish and aand coffee, and a excellent ripeness and fragrant bouquet. $18smooth finish. $16 depth. Dense, savoury,(A, UK) ‘serious’ wine, well worth cellaring. $30108 W I N E S TAT E November/December 2016

regional tastingCoopers Creek Church Road Esk Valley Te Awa Single Estate Sacred HillSV Chalk Ridge Hawke's Bay Syrah Hawke's Bay Hawke's Bay Syrah DeerstalkersHawke's Bay Syrah 2014 HHHH1/2 Syrah 2014 HHHH 2014 HHHH Hawke's Bay Syrah2014 HHHHH Powerful, sweet-fruited Boldly coloured, sweet- Very youthful, floral, 2014 HHH1/2Dark, with an invitingly red, bargain-priced. fruited red, with dense fruit-packed style, with Boldly fruity, deeplyfragrant, aromatic Deeply coloured and plum and black pepper deep, bright colour and coloured red, maturedbouquet (1.5% viognier) floral, with concentrated, flavours, and savoury, strong, fresh, plummy, for 18 months in Frenchof violets, boysenberry youthful, very ripe toasty notes adding peppery flavours, oak barrels (30% new).and licorice. Fresh, with flavours of red fruits and complexity. Described showing good purity. Medium to full-bodied,intense, ripe plum and spices, a hint of licorice, by one judge as “a burly, Elegant, with a soft, long tightly structured style,spice flavours, vibrant, and supple tannins. Drink ripe style, more shiraz finish. $30 with fresh, strongsilky-textured and long. now-2020+. $20 than syrah”. $25 Vidal Reserve blackcurrant/spiceFine value. $28 (UK) Esk Valley Mills Reef Reserve Gimblett Gravels flavours, smoky, herbal,Coopers Creek SV Winemakers Reserve Gimblett Gravels Hawke's Bay Syrah earthy notes, and firmGimblett Gravels Gimblett Gravels Hawke's Bay Syrah 2014 HHHH tannins. $60Hawke's Bay Syrah Hawke's Bay Syrah 2015 HHHH Generous, supple red, Crossroads Talisman2014 HHHHH 2014 HHHH1/2 Deep ruby, vibrantly matured for 15 months Hawke's Bay SyrahHighly expressive Dense, youthful fruity red, aged for eight in barrels (20% new). 2014 HHHin its youth, but red, grown in the months in French oak Deeply coloured, with Smooth, dark red withvery ageworthy, this Cornerstone Vineyard casks (72%), American blackcurrant, plum ripe plum/spice flavours,dark, fragrant blend and matured for 16 oak casks (8%), and and spice flavours, in and slight tamarillo and(2% viognier) is months in French oak tanks (20%). Medium a silky, finely textured earth notes. Gameyconcentrated, sweet- barriques (55% new). to full-bodied style with style, described by one and herby, with somefruited and finely Richly varietal and generous, ripe berry fruit panellist as “pinot noir- savoury complexity.structured. Rich, ripe vibrantly fruity, with and spice flavours, good like”. $25 (A, UK) $56 (A)and smooth, with hints deep plum, blackcurrant complexity and richness, Villa Maria Private Mission Hawke'sof licorice, it offers great and spice flavours, and and fine-grained tannins. Bin Hawke's Bay Bay Syrah 2015 HHHvalue. $28 a firm, tightly structured, $28 (A) Shiraz 2014 HHHH Fresh, smooth, fruit-drivenVidal Legacy long finish. $60 Mission Jewelstone Fine value red, mostly style, not barrel-aged.Gimblett Gravels Villa Maria Reserve Gimblett Gravels (80%) barrel-aged. Vibrantly fruity, with plentyHawke's Bay Syrah Gimblett Gravels Hawke's Bay Syrah Boldly coloured, with of plummy, peppery2014 HHHHH Hawke's Bay Syrah 2014 HHHH deep, ripe, well-rounded flavour, in a stronglyStylish, youthful, 2014 HHHH1/2 Dark, concentrated red, flavours of spices varietal style. Described“brooding” wine Densely coloured, matured for a year in and licorice, a slightly by one judge as “pretty”.(according to one highly concentrated red, French oak casks (23% earthy streak, and good $18 (A, UK)judge), dark and dense. matured for 17 months new). Rich, well-ripened acidity and length. Saint Clair GimblettMatured for 18 months in French oak barriques flavours of blackcurrants, (Labelled ‘shiraz’, rather Gravels Hawke's Bayin French oak barriques (35% new). Youthful, plums and spices, with than syrah, to attract Syrah 2014 HHH(38% new), it is sweet- ripe blackcurrant, plum a finely textured finish. supermarket shoppers.) Fruit-driven style,fruited, with notably and spice flavours, with $45 (A, UK) $20 (UK) partly oak-aged, withconcentrated, well- an earthy streak and Mission Reserve Alpha Domus deep colour, a pepperyripened blackcurrant, firm tannins. (One judge Gimblett Gravels The Barnstormer bouquet and fresh,plum, spice and scored it five stars.) $60 Hawke's Bay Syrah Hawke's Bay Syrah strong plum, herb andlicorice flavours, firmly Babich Winemakers 2015 HHHH 2015 HHH1/2 spice flavours, withstructured, savoury and Reserve Hawke's Dark, purple-flushed Full-coloured, firmly gentle tannins. $27 (UK)lasting. $80 Bay Syrah red with strong plum/ structured red, estate-Villa Maria Cellar 2015 HHHH spice flavours and some grown in the Bridge PaSelection Hawke's Concentrated, firmly earthy, gamey notes Triangle and maturedBay Syrah structured red, grown in adding complexity. Firm, for over a year in2014 HHHHH the Bridge Pa Triangle. peppery and savoury, mostly French oakInstantly appealing, Dark, with a fragrant with very good depth, barriques. Strongdeliciously rich and bouquet of violets, oak structure and potential. plum and black peppersmooth-flowing red. complexity and a strong $25 (A, UK) flavours, with hints ofGrown in the Gimblett surge of plum, spice and Saint Clair Pioneer licorice and violets, andGravels (two-thirds) and slight licorice flavours. Block 17 Plateau a distinctly spicy finish.the Bridge Pa Triangle Well worth cellaring. $30 Hawke's Bay Syrah $34 (A, UK, US)(one-third), and matured Clearview Cape 2014 HHHHfor 17 months in French Kidnappers Hawke's Fresh, rich, youthful,oak barriques (20% Bay Syrah Gimblett Gravels red,new). Mouthfilling and 2015 HHHH matured for 11 monthsboldly coloured, with Youthful, full-bodied, soft in French oak (30%concentrated plum, red, with dark, purple- new). Deeply colouredlicorice and spice flushed colour and an and mouthfilling, withflavours, and excellent attractive bouquet of ripe plum, spice andfruit/oak balance. Praised red berries, fruitcake licorice flavours thatby one judge as “sexy”. A and spice. Fruity, with linger well. $38 (UK)top buy. $25 (A, UK) plum and slight licorice flavours, rich and smooth. $27 November/December 2016 W I N E S TAT E 109

MICHAEL COOPER’SRECENT RELEASESIf you love pinot noir, check out the top wines in this tasting, Leveret Estatemostly from Central Otago, but also Marlborough, now by far New Reserve Hawke'sZealand’s biggest pinot noir-producing region. The latest releases Bay Chardonnayalso include impressive sauvignon blancs from Marlborough, classy 2014 HHHH1/2chardonnays from Waipara and Hawke's Bay, and a delightful rosé. This elegant, still youthful wine wasPrices shown are approximate New Zealand retail. Wines available estate-grown at coolin export markets are shown as (A), (UK) and (US). inland sites and barrel- fermented. Light lemon/½ Ataahua Waipara Domain Road green, it is mouthfilling Rosé 2015 HHHH1/2 Bannockburn and finely poised, withAkitu A1 Central ‘Serious’ but delicious, Central Otago Pinot concentrated, grapefruit-Otago Pinot Noir this estate-grown wine Noir 2013 HHHH1/2 like flavours, slightly2015 HHHH1/2 was made from pinot Built to last, this is smoky and toasty notesEstate-grown at Wanaka, noir grapes. Pale pink, a tightly structured adding complexity, andthis bright, ruby-hued it is full-bodied, with red, with full, youthful a long, tightly structuredred was matured for 10 excellent depth of fresh colour and a fragrant finish. Best drinkingmonths in oak barrels strawberry, peach, spice bouquet, suggestive of 2017+. $30(25% new). Fresh, and apricot flavours, spices and dried herbs. Rockburn Centralsavoury and supple, a sliver of sweetness, Concentrated, it has Otago Pinot Noirit has generous, ripe gentle tannins and plenty plummy, nutty flavours, 2015 HHHH1/2cherry, plum and spice of personality. $26 complex and savoury, Floral and finelyflavours, showing good and a persistent finish. textured, this is acomplexity. Finely $40 (A, UK) mouthfilling, supple,textured and youthful, Invivo Marlborough fruit-packed red. Deepit’s well worth cellaring. Sauvignon Blanc ruby, with strong cherry,$60 (A, UK, US) 2016 HHHH1/2 plum and herb flavours, Punchy and intensely it is very harmonious,Ataahua Waipara Catalina Sounds varietal in its youth, this with plenty of drink-Chardonnay Sound of White is a medium to full- young appeal, but also2015 HHHH1/2 Marlborough bodied wine with incisive good potential. BestFragrant, with a slightly Sauvignon Blanc melon, gooseberry, drinking 2018+. $50buttery bouquet, this 2015 HHHH1/2 capsicum and lime Soho Havanais a high-flavoured, Complex, very youthful flavours, dry, appetisingly Marlborough Pinotsweet-fruited wine, wine, hand-picked crisp and lasting. $20 Noir 2015 HHHH1/2barrel-fermented and and barrel-fermented. (A, UK, US) This elegant, ageworthygiven a full, softening Light lemon/green, red is full-coloured,malolactic fermentation. with mouthfilling body mouthfilling andMouthfilling, with and concentrated, ripe generous, with ripe,generous, peachy, grapefruit/lime flavours, sweet-fruit characters.slightly spicy and mealy seasoned with nutty oak. Tightly structured, it isflavours, a hint of Tightly structured, with finely balanced, withbutterscotch and good excellent vigour, depth rich, youthful plum/complexity, it is well and potential. $31 (A) spice flavours, a hintworth cellaring, but of dried herbs, andalready delicious. $30 good complexity. Best drinking 2018+. $38 (A, UK, US)110 W I N E S TAT E November/December 2016

Two Rivers of Bishops Head recent releasesMarlborough Waipara ValleyConvergence Chenin Blanc GANTLEYS RESTAURANTSauvignon Blanc 2015 HHHH2016 HHHH1/2 Fresh, ageworthy wine,This classy wine is from barrel-fermented withfive sites, in the Awatere indigenous yeasts.and Southern Valleys and Vibrant and youthful,at Rapaura, in the Wairau with peachy, slightlyValley. Fresh and sweet- mealy and toastyfruited, it has strong, flavours, showing goodvibrant melon, lime and complexity, and a slightlygreen capsicum flavours, buttery, dry, lingeringa slightly salty streak, finish. $30a touch of complexity,and a finely balanced, Graham Norton’spersistent finish. $24 Own Marlborough(UK, US) Sauvignon Blanc 2016 HHHH From “chief winemaker Graham Norton”, Invivo’sAkitu A2 Central release has a punchy,Otago Pinot Noir aromatic bouquet.2015 HHHH Medium-bodied, it isThis elegant, youthful vibrantly fruity, withred is already enjoyable. strong, ripe melon, limeEstate-grown at Wanaka and capsicum flavours,and barrel-aged for 10 a slightly salty streak,months (13% new), it a vague suggestion ofhas a fragrant, savoury sweetness and a crisp,bouquet, leading into lingering finish. $20a moderately rich wine (A, UK, US)with ripe cherry, plumand spice flavours,showing very gooddelicacy and complexity.Drink mid-2017+. $40 (A,UK, US)Ataahua WaiparaMerlot 2014 HHHHDelicious young, thisestate-grown red wasmatured for a yearin seasoned Frenchoak casks. Fragrantand full-coloured, itis mouthfilling, withfine-grained tanninsand a strong surge offresh plum/blackcurrantflavours. Best drinkingmid-2017+. $30Bishops Head Loveblock GANTLEYS RESTAURANTWaipara Valley Marlborough Queenstown, New ZealandChardonnay Gewurztraminer P: +64 3 442 8999 | F: +64 3 442 70072014 HHHH 2014 HHHHThis is an elegant, tightly Certified organic, this E: [email protected] wine. Barrel- is a mouthfilling, fleshy, www.gantleys.co.nzfermented, it is medium soft wine, with slightly LOWBURN FERRY WINESto full-bodied, with sweet, ripe flavours of Central Otago, New Zealandvibrant, citrusy, slightly lychees, peaches and P: +64 3 445 0846buttery flavours, good spices. Richly varietal E: [email protected] spine, and mealy, and finely textured, it’s www.lowburnferry.co.nzbiscuity notes adding drinking well now, withcomplexity. Drink now or an inviting perfume.cellar. $30 $25 (A, US) November/December 2016 W I N E S TAT E 111

MICHAEL COOPERLeveret Hawke's Bay Paddy Borthwick Peacock Sky Spy Valley Bishops HeadChardonnay New Zealand Waiheke Island Pure Marlborough Waipara Valley Fumé2014 HHHH Chardonnay Malbec 2014 HHHH Sauvignon Blanc Blanc 2015 HHH1/2This fresh, elegant 2015 HHHH Matured for over a year 2016 HHHH Barrel-fermented,wine offers good value. Grown in the Wairarapa, in French oak barrels, Showing good intensity, this full-bodied wineMouthfilling and smooth, this has a fragrant, this deeply coloured, this wine was partly has fresh acidity andwith a hint of gunflint, slightly buttery and nutty fruity red is medium to barrel-fermented and generous, ripely herbal,it is citrusy and peachy, bouquet. The palate is full-bodied, with strong, made in a crisp, dry slightly nutty flavours.slightly buttery and vibrant, with strong, lively, plum and spice style. Mouthfilling, It’s a distinctly cool-toasty, with lively acidity peachy, mealy, slightly flavours, slightly earthy it has lively tropical climate expressionand good complexity toasty flavours, woven notes adding complexity, fruit and herbaceous of sauvignon blanc,and length. Drink now or with fresh acidity, good and a fairly firm finish. flavours, with a touch of showing considerablecellar. $22 complexity, and some Best mid-2017+. $40 complexity, and a lengthy complexity. $30Leveret Hawke's potential. Best drinking Sacred Hill finish. Already drinking Black CottageBay Merlot Cabernet mid-2017+. $26 Marlborough Pinot well. $19 (A, UK, US) Reserve Central2014 HHHH Paddy Borthwick Gris 2016 HHHH Otago Pinot NoirStill unfolding, this New Zealand Pinot Sturdy, Alsace-style pinot Super Nanny Central 2015 HHH1/2deeply coloured blend Gris 2015 HHHH gris (blended with 11% Otago Pinot Noir Enjoyable young, thisis rich, with generous Fleshy, ripe and gewurztraminer), grown 2015 HHHH partly barrel-aged red isplum, spice and nut rounded, this estate- in the Southern Valleys. This sturdy, full-flavoured bright ruby, mouthfillingflavours. Showing good grown wine is from Fleshy, with strong, ripe, wine was grown at and smooth, with ripeconcentration, with ripe, Gladstone, in the peachy, spicy flavours, Bannockburn and Pisa, cherry, plum and spicesupple tannins and a Wairarapa. It has strong gentle acidity and a barrel-aged (40% new) flavours, showing somewell-rounded finish, it’s stonefruit and spice dryish, rich, rounded and bottled unfined and savoury complexity.a drink-now or cellaring flavours, in a dryish finish. Drink now or unfiltered. Still youthful, Drink now or cellar.proposition. $22 style, inviting current cellar. $20 it is concentrated and $25 (A, UK, US)Mahinepua Bay drinking or cellaring. savoury, with strong Black CottageChambourcin $22 Saint Clair James strawberry, spice and Marlborough Pinot2014 HHHH Paddy Borthwick Sinclair Gimblett dried herb flavours, Gris 2016 HHH1/2Estate-grown in New Zealand Pinot Gravels Hawke's Bay oak complexity and the Gently floral, dry style,Northland at a coastal Noir 2015 HHHH Malbec 2014 HHHH structure to age well. with lively pear, lycheesite well north of the Grown in the Wairarapa, This dark, purple-flushed $49 (A, UK) and spice flavours, livelyBay of Islands, this this deep ruby, full- red was estate-grown acidity, and very goodsturdy, boldly coloured bodied red has plum, in the Plateau Vineyard ½ freshness, delicacy andred is fresh and fruit- cherry and spice and French oak-aged. depth. $18 (A, UK)packed, with generous flavours, hints of Mouthfilling, it has Ataahua Waipara Black Cottageplum and spice flavours, herbs and nuts, finely strong, plummy flavours, Riesling Marlborough Roséshowing good vigour and balanced tannins, and showing some savoury 2015 HHH1/2 2016 HHH1/2concentration. $25 good ripeness and complexity, and gentle Light lemon/green, This pale pink, medium-Main Divide Waipara concentration. Best tannins, in a seductively this youthful, medium- bodied rosé is a dryishValley Riesling drinking 2018+. $34 rich, smooth style. bodied wine is a slightly blend of pinot noir and2014 HHHH Paddy Borthwick Enjoyable now. $25 sweet style, with pinot gris. Fresh andOffering fine value, New Zealand good depth of ripe, smooth, it has livelythis wine has good Riesling 2015 HHHH citrusy, limey flavours, peach, watermelon,personality. Light lemon/ Balanced for easy hints of peaches and lychee and pear flavours,green, it is medium- drinking, this Gladstone passionfruit, fresh showing very goodbodied and tangy, Wairarapa wine is fleshy, acidity and a tight finish. delicacy and harmony.with strong citrus and with generous peach Best drinking mid- $18 (A, UK)passionfruit flavours, a and grapefruit flavours, 2017+. $26 Black Cottagehint of oranges, gentle hints of passionfruit and Marlboroughsweetness and lively spices, lively acidity, Sauvignon Blancacidity. Drink now or and lots of drink-young 2016 HHH1/2cellar. (From Pegasus appeal. $22 Offering lots of drink-Bay.) $21 Peacock Sky young appeal, this isMount Brown Grand Waiheke Island a mouthfilling, finelyReserve Waipara Merlot Malbec balanced wine with aValley Pinot Noir 2014 HHHH fresh, aromatic bouquet2014 HHHH Showing good potential, and good depth of ripelyDrinking well now but this youthful, 3:1 blend of herbaceous flavours,still unfolding, this merlot and malbec was crisp and lively. Goodruby hued, moderately French oak-aged for over value. $18 (A, UK, US)youthful red was a year. Deeply coloured,matured for 18 months it has fresh, smooth, ripein oak barriques (25% blackcurrant, plum andnew). Fragrant, it has spice flavours, gentlystrong, ripe plum, seasoned with oak andspice and nut flavours, firm tannins. $40good tannin supportand a savoury, earthycomplexity. $35112 W I N E S TAT E November/December 2016

Falconhead Hawke's Mahinepua Bay Sacred Hill recent releasesBay Merlot Cabernet Shiraz 2014 HHH1/2 Marlborough2014 HHH1/2 From a coastal site in Sauvignon Blanc clickBargain-priced, this Northland - well north of 2016 HHH1/2 blinksmooth, full-coloured the Bay of the Islands Freshly herbaceous, drinkred is a fresh, fruit-driven - this deeply coloured strongly varietal style,style, with generous, red is mouthfilling and medium-bodied, with Visit us for all your premium wine needsripe, red berry and sweet-fruited, with good crisp melon, lime andspice flavours, and depth of fresh plum/ green capsicum flavours, pulpitcellars.com.auhints of herbs and dark spice flavours and a showing very goodchocolate. Showing very fairly firm finish. $35 balance, vigour andgood depth, it should Paddy Borthwick depth. $20be at its best 2017+. Falloon Block New Saint Clair James$17 Zealand Pinot Noir Sinclair GimblettGunn Estate 2015 HHH1/2 Gravels Hawke'sReserve Hawke's Mouthfilling and supple, Bay Cabernet MerlotBay Merlot Cabernet this youthful, deep 2014 HHH1/22015 HHH1/2 ruby wine has plummy, A drink now or cellaringFresh, fruit-driven spicy, slightly nutty proposition, this isstyle, blended from flavours, showing a hint a blend of cabernetmerlot (83%), cabernet of tamarillo, and good sauvignon (84%) andsauvignon (11%) and complexity and depth. merlot (16%), partlymalbec (6%). Full- Priced right. $24 American oak-aged.coloured, with generous, Peacock Sky Full-coloured, it isvibrant, plummy, slightly Waiheke Island mouthfilling, withspicy flavours, ripe Cabernet Sauvignon very good depth ofand smooth. Enjoyable 2014 HHH1/2 blackcurrant, herb andyoung. $20 Medium to full-bodied, red berry flavours, inGunn Estate Reserve this fruity blend of a generous, vibrantlyMarlborough Pinot cabernet sauvignon fruity style with gentleGris 2016 HHH1/2 (85%), cabernet franc tannins. $25Fleshy style, grown in (10%) and malbec (5%) Saint Clair Jamesthe Southern Valleys and was French oak-aged Sinclair Gimblettblended with a small for over a year. Deeply Gravels Hawke's Bayamount of chardonnay coloured, it is fresh, Syrah 2014 HHH1/2(10%). Mouthfilling, with with plummy, spicy, Partly oak-aged, thisa hint of sweetness and slightly herbal flavours, youthful, deeplyvery good depth of ripe, in a clearly varietal style coloured red was estate-peachy, slightly gingery with good but not great grown in the Plateauand spicy flavours. $20 depth. $40 Vineyard. Medium toInvivo Marlborough Peacock Sky full-bodied, it is stronglyPinot Gris Waiheke Island Pure varietal, with plum, spice2016 HHH1/2 Franc 2014 HHH1/2 and black pepper aromasFresh and full-bodied, Fullish in colour, this and flavours, fresh,with clearcut varietal fresh, smooth wine vibrant and smooth.character, this is a dryish is like a very light Best drinking 2017+.wine with pear, lychee Bordeaux, with youthful $25and spice flavours, berry, plum, spice and Saint Clairshowing good depth, herb flavours, savoury James Sinclairand a smooth finish. notes adding complexity, Marlborough$20 (A, UK, US) and some elegance. $40 ChardonnayLeveret IQ Peacock Sky 2014 HHH1/2Rosé Methode Waiheke Island Pure Mouthfilling, slightlyTraditionnelle Merlot 2014 HHH1/2 creamy-textured wine,NV HHH1/2 This sturdy red was grown in the SouthernShowing some maturity, matured over a year in Valleys and Awaterethis is a Hawke's Bay French oak barrels. Full- Valley and mostly barrel-blend of pinot noir, coloured, it has strong, fermented. Fresh andchardonnay and pinot ripe, plummy, slightly smooth, with citrusy,meunier. Orange hued, spicy and nutty flavours, slightly biscuity flavours,with a hint of apricot, and a firm backbone of a hint of sweet oak,it is crisp, flavoursome tannin. $40 and good depth andand dry, with berry and harmony. Enjoyablespice flavours, showing now. $22considerable complexity,and a smooth, gentlyyeasty finish. $22 November/December 2016 W I N E S TAT E 113

MICHAEL COOPERSaint Clair Soho Stella Wild South Leveret IQ Premium Saint ClairJames Sinclair Marlborough Marlborough Brut Methode James SinclairMarlborough Pinot Sauvignon Blanc Sauvignon Blanc Traditionnelle Marlborough PinotNoir 2014 HHH1/2 2016 HHH1/2 2016 HHH1/2 NV HHH Gris 2015 HHHPartly barrel-aged, this Fresh and smooth, Crisp, medium-bodied Pale straw, this Hawke's Fresh, full-bodied blendruby-hued, moderately this youthful, medium wine, strongly varietal, Bay blend of pinot of pinot gris (87.5%)youthful red was to full-bodied style is with vibrant melon, lime noir, chardonnay and with smaller amountsgrown in the Southern clearly herbaceous, with and green capsicum pinot meunier is crisp of gewürztraminer,Valleys. Mouthfilling melon, lime and green flavours. Frisky and and fruity, with citrusy, riesling, gruner veltlinerand smooth, it has ripe, capsicum flavours and a finely balanced. $18 slightly buttery and and muscat. Dryish,plummy, slightly nutty crisp, dry finish. $25 toasty flavours, showing ‘grigio’ style, with plentyflavours, gentle tannins (A, UK, US)  moderate complexity of crisp, slightly spicyand some savoury Spy Valley and good depth. $22 flavour. $22complexity. It’s drinking Marlborough Falconhead Rossendale Saint Clair Vicar’swell now. $25 Pinot Noir Rosé Marlborough Pinot Marlborough Choice MarlboroughSaint Clair 2016 HHH1/2 Noir 2014 HHH Chardonnay Sauvignon BlancJames Sinclair This pale pink, single- Drinking well now, 2015 HHH Bubbles 2016 HHHMarlborough vineyard wine has fresh this light ruby red is Priced sharply, this Fresh, crisp and lively,Sauvignon Blanc watermelon, peach and mouthfilling (14.5% barrel-fermented wine this carbonated sparkling2015 HHH1/2 spice flavours, crisp alc/vol), sweet-fruited is medium-bodied, is from grapes grownGrown in the lower and dry, showing very and smooth, with ripe with fresh, crisp, lively, in the Wairau Valley andWairau Valley, this is a good depth. $23 (A, plum and spice flavours, citrusy flavours to the Ure Valley. Aromaticherbaceous style with UK, US) showing a touch of fore, slightly peachy and vivacious, withan aromatic, slightly Ti Point Ruby complexity, and a well- and toasty notes, a ripely herbaceousnettley bouquet. Hawke's Bay Rosé rounded finish. $18 touch of complexity and flavours, it tastes justFull-flavoured, with a 2016 HHH1/2 satisfying depth. $16 like you would expectslightly salty streak, it’s Light pink, this merlot- – sauvignon blanc witha strongly varietal wine, based rosé is a crisp, bubbles. $19 (A)ready to roll. $22 dry style, with gentle Spy Valley Easy peach, watermelon and Tiger Marlborough spice flavours, showing Sauvignon Blanc good delicacy and depth. 2016 HHH $23 Light-bodied, with green-edged flavours, this is a tasty, low alcohol style (9% alc/ vol) with a hint of passionfruit, firm acid spine, and a touch of complexity (from some barrel fermentation). $19 (UK, US)114 W I N E S TAT E November/December 2016

insiderthe wine & spiritAUSTRALIAN & NEW ZEALANDNovember/December 2016 Issue 150 COMPLIMENTARY COPY THE WINE & SPIRIT INSIDER IS A PROMOTIONAL GUIDE FROM THE LIQUOR TRADE TO THE CONSUMER. Winestate Publishing ABN 56 088 226 411 In this issue... New Releases & Best Value Buys Under $20 451 wines tasted • Category Winner and Top 10 Finalist Domaine Asmara Reserve Heathcote Shiraz 2013 www.domaineasmara.com

233 TASTED151 AWARDEDNEW RELEASESA high quality new release judging at the peak of the year where Artwine Adelaidecompetition is fierce. We can truly recommend any of these Hills Proseccowines that got past our three judges tasting panel. Standouts 2016 HHHwere riesling and chardonnay, with a big surprise from the pinot Light citrus bouquet withflight which was one of the best we have tasted of the variety. fine bead and fresh crispCabernets offered a “stunning class”, whilst shiraz had its stars, but green apple palate withalso some disappointments. balanced sweetness. $25SPARKLING Fox Creek Wines Dog Leg South VBBAEULSYUTSE MyattsField Vineyard Vixen McLaren Vale Australia Perth Hills Sparkling12 TASTED Sparkling Shiraz Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot8 AWARDED Cabernet Sauvignon Chardonnay NV HHH Noir 2013 HHH Cabernet Franc Nice nuttiness to the Nose of lemon curd withOne classic white NV HHHH nose. Simple creamy nice toastiness. Creamyhere and some nice A traditional old Aussie palate with moderate, in the mouth withcommercial examples of style. Huge rich fruit cake- slightly sweet, flavours. citrussy flavours. $28prosecco, moscatos and like nose. Quite a tannic $13sparkling reds whilst the palate. Nice balance of OTHER WHITE Artwine Wickedvintage sparklings, with blue fruit flavours. Drying No.1 Family Estate VARIETALS & Stepmother Clarea bit more time in the finish. $25 Cuvee Virginie BLENDS Valley Fianobottle, showed that extra Lou Miranda Estate Marlborough 2016 HHHHcomplexity. Famiglia Miranda Methode 9 TASTED A fresh bouquet of Premium Cuvee Traditionnelle 6 AWARDED peaches and herbs withBream Creek South Australia NV HHH malty notes. ElegantVineyard Cuvee Sparkling Shiraz Light candied citrus A mixed group of palate has a lovelyTraditionelle NV HHH aromas - some toasty varietals; all very young softness with moderateTasmania Pinot Noir Porty nose; hints of age and a complex and fresh without citrus flavours. $25Chardonnay licorice. Nice flavours, palate with crisp acid complexity with the best2010 HHHH1/2 moderate tannins, some line. $85 showing nice textureA beautiful complex sweetness, balancing and varietal character.yet elegant sparkling. acidity. $11.95Slightly shy yeasty nose. Dog Leg South VBBAEULSYUTSECreamy in the mouth Australiawith richness from the Sparklingbottle age. Length of Moscato 2016 HHHtime this wine has been Fresh lifted aromaticon yeast is obvious. $42 muscat fruit nose and sweet citric palate. Great balance for the style. $13JUDGES - DAY 1 Bill Hardy Peter Simic Corporate oenologist for Editor/publisher Winestate Stephen John Accolade Wines (formerly Magazine. More than 35 Senior Winemaker forThe Constellation). 28 years’ years’ experience in the Wine Group Australia and winemaking experience in wine industry. Formerly owner/winemaker of Stephen places such as McLaren Vale, founding publisher of John Wines. More than 30 Western Australia and France. the first US colour wine years’ winemaking experience. Has judged internationally magazine, manager of Has judged at Adelaide, (France and Japan), and been the SA Wine Information National, and Barossa wine an associate or senior judge at Bureau, and wine educator shows. Regular Winestate more than 20 state and regional with Regency College, panellist and chairman of wine shows in Australia. in SA. judges at the Winestate Wine of theYear Awards.116 The Wine & Spirit INSIDER

wine & spirit insider tastingArtwine In The SAUVIGNON Dog Leg VBBAEULSYUTSE Richard Hamilton Wise Wine SeaGroove Adelaide BLANC & Western The Hills Adelaide Urchin MargaretHills Gruner Veltliner BLENDS Australia Sauvignon Hills Sauvignon River Semillon2016 HHH1/2 Blanc 2016 HHH Blanc 2016 HHH Sauvignon BlancAn elegance of fruit salad 22 TASTED Light simple quaffer with Pretty florals obvious 2016 HHHH1/2aromas on the nose 12 AWARDED slightly aromatic nose on the simple nose. Pungent and oaky on thewhich follows through and tight line of punchy High level of acid on the nose with a gooseberry-to the simple, slightly The judges were tropical flavours. $13 palate with a firm finish. like lift and a long, verysavoury, palate. $28 very pleased with the $20 approachable tropicalMolly's Cradle consistency across the Pepperton Estate palate showing moreEstate Hunter Valley board in this group. Two Thumbs RockBare Alta of the gooseberryVerdelho 2016 HHH \"These are for drinking, Langhorne Creek Adelaide Hills characters. Nice brightBright and fresh with not thinking,\" said Sauvignon Blanc Sauvignon Blanc acidity. $19.50floral fragrances and a one judge. \"Most are 2016 HHH 2016 HHH Little Birdwood SEAsimple fruity palate. Very quaffers for drinking Vibrant zesty fruit salad Aromas of tropical Semillon Sauvignongood quaffer. $19 now, not so much aromas and a crisp, dry fruit salad with a broad Blanc 2016 HHH1/2Paracombe Gruner for ageing.\" The older and balanced palate. flavoursome palate. Delicate tropical fruitV5 Adelaide Hills examples did not make $16.99 Excellent commercial bouquet with a lightGruner Veltliner the cut. style. $20 elegant palate full ofBlend 2016 HHH Yarrawood Yarra flavour and interest.Restrained nose; some Sileni Cellar Valley Sauvignon Millbrook Winery $4.99complexity beneath. Selection Blanc 2016 HHH Regional Margaret Byrne VineyardsAustere, elegant palate Marlborough Pungent mix of River Sauvignon Devlin's Mount SAwith racy acidity. $21 Sauvignon Blanc gooseberry and green Blanc 2016 HHH Semillon SauvignonHand Crafted 2016 HHHH1/2 bean fragrances. Strong A light crisp varietal with Blanc 2016 HHHby Geoff Hardy Very vibrant and fruity herbal flavours on the floral fruit characters and A crowd pleaser withAdelaide Hills style - typically New tight fresh palate. $18 an austere finish to the a tight tropical noseFiano 2016 HHH Zealand sav blanc with palate. $22 and some roundnessHerbal nose with a its big tropical fruit lift Greyrock and complexity on theperfumed lift. Slightly oily to the nose with some Marlborough Matahiwi Estate palate. $15in the mouth with elegant spiciness. Lovely depth of Sauvignon Blanc Holly Wairarapa Eldredge Vineyardsfruit flavours. $25 fruit flavours with a herbal 2016 HHH Sauvignon Blanc Mollie Clare ValleyWise Wine Leaf edge. $19.99 NZ Sherbety nose; some 2015 HHH Semillon SauvignonSeries Margaret pungency. Varietally rich Hint of bottle age Blanc 2016 HHHRiver Fiano Forester Estate flavours with residual developing on the fruit A delicate lift of citrus2016 HHH Margaret River sugar balanced by the salad nose. Good fruit/ and hay on the noseTight restrained citrus Sauvignon Blanc acid. $18.99 NZ acid balance on the with a flavoursomearomas and simple 2016 HHHH palate. $28 NZ tropical/citrus palate.fleshy palate. Needs A complex nose with Wignalls Wines $18time to evolve. $28 subtle candied melon Single Vineyard SEMILLON Bonking Frog fragrances and good all Great Southern SAUVIGNON Foreigner Margaret round flavour profile with Sauvignon Blanc BLANC River Semillon balancing acidity. \"A real 2016 HHH Sauvignon Blanc crowd pleaser.\" $28 Herbaceous edge to this 9 TASTED 2016 HHH nose and a broad rich 7 AWARDED Light mintiness to the palate with dry white grassy green/citrus flavours. $19 A consistent flight of aromas. Soft, generous quaffers. \"Semillon adds and slightly sweet Moss Brothers character to sauvignon palate. $22 Margaret River blanc and is a great Sauvignon Blanc addition,\" commented Semillon 2016 HHH one judge. Light sweet melon bouquet. Soft in the mouth with good balance of acid, tannins and sweetness. $19.99JUDGES - DAY 2 Nick Haselgrove Dan Pritchard Winestate’s 2010 Master of Oenology. Stephen John Australian Winemaker Sparkling winemaker Chief winemaker, The Wine of the Year. Winemaker/ for Treasury Wines Group Australia. Formerly Director of Adelaide Group. Also involved Owner/winemaker Stephen Winemakers. Former chief with Limestone Coast John wines. Winestate winemaker at Haselgrove wines, Jameson’s Run Chairman of Judges, Wine of Wines. A ‘flying and Robertson’s Well. the Year Awards (12 years). winemaker’ from 1993-95. Associate judge at the Over 35 years Senior judge Judge at Hobart for 3 Inland wine show. at major Capital City wine years and associate judge shows. at Adelaide in 1996-97. The Wine & Spirit INSIDER 117

NEW RELEASESForester Estate South Point Estate Springton Hills Reillys Wines Stolen Giesen Estate NewMargaret River SEA Pinot Grigio Wines Eliza's Eden Block Watervale Zealand RieslingSemillon Sauvignon 2016 HHH Valley Riesling Clare Valley Riesling 2015 HHH1/2Blanc 2016 HHH A simple style with light 2016 HHHHH 2016 HHHH1/2 Germanic-like greenCitrussy bouquet with pear-like fruit characters Some delicate A fuller up-front style fruit/residual sugarminted peas underneath. with citric acidity. Pleasant smokiness to the fresh of riesling with lime overtones to the noseSweet up-front fruit on quaffer. $4.99 lifted varietal fruit nose. juice aromas showing a with great depth ofthe palate. $24 Lovely flavours on the touch of spice. Lovely flavours on an off dryByrne Vineyards Eldredge Vineyards long, crisp and elegant flavours on the slightly palate. $19.99Criminal Minds SA Clare Valley Pinot palate. \"A wine with perfumed palate with aSemillon Sauvignon Gris 2016 HHH class - my kind of style,\" good solid backbone of Hemera EstateBlanc 2015 HHH A nicely textured wine said one judge. $22 acid. $11.99 Estate BarossaAttractive wine that more full bodied in Stage Door Wine RockBare Clare Riesling 2016 HHHsmells grassy and herbal style but simple with Co. The Green Room Valley Riesling A classic style withbut tastes honeyed and hints of pears and citrus Eden Valley Riesling 2016 HHHH1/2 elegant floral/spicy nosetropical. $18 blossom. $20 2016 HHHHH A classic riesling nose; and genuine varietal Beautiful bright green smells of citrus peel depth to the palate. $25PINOT GRIS/ Lou Miranda Estate wine. Lovely lime cordial with a lovely lift. The bigGRIGIO Leone Barossa Valley nose. Delivers good well-balanced palate Wise Wine Leaf Pinot Grigio depth of lime and lemon shows great varietal Series Frankland9 TASTED 2016 HHH flavours with a hint of fruit intensity and has a River Riesling4 AWARDED Dried pear nose with residual sugar. $25 citrussy acid finish. $22 2016 HHH\"A complete lack of toffee apple notes. Taylors Clare Valley Light spicy nose anddirection and style,\" said Depth of bright varietal Riesling 2016 HHHH a pleasant, crisp andone judge. \"They are all fruit flavours. Tight acid. A great austere varietal. elegant palate. Lovelyover the place and hard $25.95 Delicate candied floral 'picnic' style. $28to define what pinot gris notes and long elegantor grigio is supposed to RIESLING palate with good Artis Singlebe. It would be better riesling flavours and Vineyard Clareto call them pinot grey!\" 14 TASTED crisp acid. A keeper. Valley RieslingHaving said that there 11 AWARDED 2016 HHHare a few wines worthy 3-5 $19 Lovely fresh fruityof attention. A great class of Artwine Glass Half bouquet and a good depth consistent wines. \"It Full Clare Valley of spicy citrus flavours onArtwine Prego Clare shows the stylistic class Riesling 2016 HHHH the palate. $36.99Valley Pinot Grigio of rieslings which offer An elegant nose with2016 HHH1/2 good drinking now or lovely riesling aromas. The CHARDONNAYDelicate tropical/guava can be aged for ten palate is long and lingeringbouquet with a hint of years or so,\" said one and well-balanced and 18 TASTEDyeast. A palate with judge. \"Lots to look is loaded with crisp dry 15 AWARDEDpoise and complexity and forward to.\" flavours. $22sweet fruit flavours. $22 Eldredge Vineyards Another consistent Clare Valley Riesling class. \"The 2015s were 2016 HHH1/2 the pick of the bunch; a Still a baby! Full floral fine vintage,\" said one fruit fragrances and firm judge. \"These were all dry flavours with a zesty distinctly chardonnay acid finish. $20 ranging from fresh varietal stonefruit flavours to the complex rich and generously flavoured barrel fermented wines.\"118 The Wine & Spirit INSIDER

wine & spirit insider tastingMillbrook Winery Pertaringa Regional Taylors Promised ROSÉ Bonking FrogLimited Release Series Adelaide Hills Land South Australia Summer MerlotMargaret River Chardonnay Chardonnay 14 TASTED Geographe RoséChardonnay 2016 HHHH 2016 HHH 7 AWARDED 2016 HHHH2015 HHHHH Simple melon/peach Light citrus, melon and Some very good results A vibrant electric pinkA flinty complexity of varietal fruit characters fig aromas. Simple here with the best made wine with a pleasant,nutty fruit aromas with a here matched by some palate, a touch sweet; as genuine varietal slightly sweet, fruitslight funkiness lurking well-handled oak. Has flavours of melons and rosés rather than after nose and lovely freshthere. The palate is fresh aromas and a peaches. $13 thoughts. \"It's good to length of lively raspberrycreamy, complex and creamy palate. $32 Byrne Vineyards see that winemakers flavours. $22beautifully balanced with RockBare McLaren Scotts Creek Retreat have moved away from Luna Rosa Centralgenerous flavours and Vale Chardonnay SA Chardonnay excessively sweet wines Ranges Rosadoexcellent mouthfeel. $45 2015 HHHH 2016 HHH towards drier styles,\" 2016 HHHGiesen The Fuder Fruity nose with subtle Long and simple with noted one judge. Pretty pink crowdClayvin Marlborough nuttiness. Palate is tight, a fig, citrus, peach and pleaser with light fruitChardonnay restrained and has a nice nut-like combination of Artwine The nose and powerful spicy2014 HHHHH texture. The primary fruit aromas and flavours. Temptress Clare fruit flavours. $16Another complex and flavours are laced with $18 Valley Rosé Satyr by Silenisomewhat funky style nice acid. $20 Wignalls Wines 2016 HHHH Estates Hawke's Bayof chardonnay. Some House of Great Southern An attractive rosé made Rosé 2016 HHHobvious struck match Plantagenet York Chardonnay in a European style. Fresh flinty fragrancescharacters on the nose Mount Barker 2016 HHH Smells of peaches with broad, slightlywith a flavoursome Chardonnay Attractive honeydew and cream with soft savoury, ripe fruit flavours.palate that has a lovely 2015 HHHH melon bouquet and a fruit flavours. A great Some sweetness.creamy texture. $69.99 A rich and complex sweet, slightly simple, luncheon wine. $20 $18.99 NZ nutty nose with a big tropical fruit palate. Z Wine Aveline Kalleske Wines generous peach-driven $18 Barossa Valley Rosina Barossa palate showing smoky Taylors Jaraman Rosé 2016 HHHH Valley Rosé oak and a slight green Clare Valley Adelaide Lovely fresh confectionery 2016 HHH streak. $35 Hills Chardonnay fruit bouquet followed by Peppery notes to the Taylors St Andrews 2015 HHH a bright and lively palate savoury nose and with Clare Valley A complex wine loaded with lovely crisp more of the savouriness Chardonnay showing some delicacy. berry fruit flavours. $20 on the interesting palate. 2015 HHHH Has a peachy nose and $20 A bigger style creamy butterscotch Howard Vineyard chardonnay with aromas flavours. $24 Picnic Adelaide Hills of ripe figs and peaches. Deep Woods Estate Rosé 2015 HHH The powerful peach Hillside Margaret Dolly pink hues, simple palate has loads of oak River Chardonnay savoury nose and and nice line of acid. $35 2015 HHH retained musky fruit Brand's Laira A big heavy wine with flavours. \"Great wedding Foundation figs and peaches on wine!\" $19 Coonawarra the nose and good Chardonnay persistence of citrus 2014 HHHH flavours. $24.99 Ripe melon fruit Richard Hamilton bouquet with slightly Signature Single nutty notes. Palate is Vineyard Adelaide light and toasty with Hills Chardonnay good vinosity and some 2015 HHH warming alcohol. $23 Peach fruit fragrances Byrne Vineyards with oak adding Estate Series SA complexity. A 'slippery' Chardonnay nutty palate. Great 2016 HHH1/2 quaffer. $30 Fresh varietal fruit nose Bream Creek with very light touch of Vineyard Tasmania oak and sweet peach Chardonnay and melon flavours on a 2013 HHH slightly warming palate. Some nice age adding $18 complexity to the fresh fig, stonefruit and citrus characters. \"Has years in it!\" $32 The Wine & Spirit INSIDER 119

NEW RELEASES OTHER RED MERLOT & VARIETALS & BLENDS Artwine is the BLENDS first Adelaide 7 TASTED Hills Cellar Door 12 TASTED 3 AWARDED with an estate 4 AWARDED grown Prosecco The judges found this to Mixed bag with some be a mixed bag of wines Open daily for tastings, excellent examples with some surprisingly sales and platters whilst some of the good examples. \"These 11am to 5pm. others have more work had rich, sweet and to do! youthful varietal fruit AA and balanced oak,\" commented one judge. Artwine DiGiorgio Lou Miranda 72 Bird in Hand Road Woodside SA Family Wines Estate Famiglia Limestone Coast Miranda South www.artwine.com.au Montepulciano Australia Merlot 2015 HHHH1/2 2015 HHHH1/2120 The Wine & Spirit INSIDER A classy wine with Fabulous super sweet subtle sweet red berry jammy fruit nose. Lovely aromas showing a hint fleshy palate, soft and of herbaceousness. The rounded in the mouth savoury palate has great with excellent fresh dry/sour varietal fruit youthful blueberry flavours and a drying overtones to the lovely tannic finish. $23 flavours. $11.95 Quarisa Wines Possingham & Ralph Fowler Caravan South East Summers McLaren Mount Benson Australia Durif Vale Malbec Merlot 2015 HHH1/2 2015 HHHH1/2 2015 HHHH A dark dense and very A huge classic durif. Lovely varietal fruit concentrated wine. Massive ripe fruit nose bouquet with delicate Huge porty/plum jam layered with sweet violet-like notes and a nose and good length of vanilla oak. Excellent youthful red berry fruit firm fruit/oak flavours. vibrant fruit flavours with palate. Nice use of oak strong toasty oak and to balance. $18 5+ $30 drying tannin. \"Bring on Inner City the fillet of Mastodon!\" Winemakers New MyattsField $13.99 England Tempranillo Vineyard Perth Hills 2015 HHH1/2 Manjimup Merlot Plums and mulberries 2015 HHH on a slightly savoury An austere style with a nose. Soft generous firm acid spine, beautiful varietal palate with oak and subtle berry excellent European fruit. Needs cellaring. style flavours. $28 5+ $20 PINOT NOIR 15 TASTED 12 AWARDED One of the most consistent new release pinot classes we have seen. \"Many wines here showed freshness and varietal character moving away from the old fashioned dry red styles,\" said one judge.

wine & spirit insider tastingCraggy Range Te Giesen Small Batch Beresford Barrel Nick Haselgrove Howard VineyardMuna Road Vineyard Marlborough Pinot Select McLaren Vale Wines Blackbilly Picnic Adelaide HillsMartinborough Pinot Noir 2014 HHH G.S.M. 2015 HHHHH McLaren Vale Cabernet SauvignonNoir 2014 HHHHH A lean slightly savoury A big generous wine G.S.M. 2014 HHH Cabernet FrancA classic pinot with varietal. Some fruit and with wonderful Rhone- Lively confectionery Shiraz 2015 HHHgenuine varietal fruit herbs on the nose and like characters evident. nose and lovely balance Slightly austere leafycharacters. Lovely lifted austere fruit flavours. Powerful red berry of varietal fruit flavours. berry nose with similarspicy fruit aromas and $26.99 bouquet. A great palate Nice quaffer. $23 characters on the light,a wonderful complex that is rich and softly simple palate. $19varietal palate that's Giesen Single textured with strong Z Wine Romanmore savoury than Vineyard Waihopai drying tannins. Barossa Valley Taylors Winemakerssweet and finishes Marlborough Pinot Grenache Shiraz Project Clare Valleycleanly. $42.95 NZ Noir 2014 HHH 5+ $28 Mataro 2014 HHH Cabernet SauvignonTomich Wines A stylish and pleasant Millbrook Winery Vibrant crimson colour Merlot MalbecWoodside Vineyard drink with nice depth Regional Geographe with velvety fruit aromas Cabernet FrancAdelaide Hills Pinot of berry fruit with good Grenache Shiraz and excellent depth of Shiraz 2014 HHHNoir 2015 HHHH balance of oak. $69.99 Mourvedre sweet berry flavours. $30 Purple red wine with aLovely freshness of 2015 HHHH powerful lift of sweetstrawberry-like varietal Brangayne Of Complex spicy herbal CABERNET berry aromas and a bigfruit on the nose and has Orange Orange nose and rich vibrant BLENDS tannic palate. $25a lovely soft palate with Pinot Noir palate that's fresh withfresh strawberry fruit 2014 HHH sweet fruit flavours. 7 TASTED CABERNETdepth. $30 Lolly sweet aromas Warming alcohol. 5 AWARDED SAUVIGNONBream Creek with hints of herbs and \"Excellent style.\"Vineyard Tasmania a fresh strawberry- Another strong class. 20 TASTEDPinot Noir like palate. Drying oak 3-5 $22 Some good examples 17 AWARDED2013 HHH1/2 finish. $35 Z Wine Rustica that deliver good foodTending more towards a Barossa Valley wines for consumers. A stunning class! Wedry red but a well-made Giesen Single Grenache 2015 HHH can't remember whenwine never-the-less. Has Vineyard Ridge Soft light commercial Bream Creek so many cabernets werea complexity of fruit, oak Block Marlborough style with excellent Vineyard Tasmania recommended with suchand spices. $36 Pinot Noir structure, spicy floral Cabernet Merlot high scores. This showsTomich Wines 2013 HHH varietal fruit and tarry 2013 HHHH1/2 the great quality of theGallery Collection A good varietal with lots oak. 3-5 $15 Incredibly vibrant wine vintages 2012, 2014Duck and Weave of oak. Has a smoky Gisa Wines Ellipsis that has a very complex and 2015. Lots to lookAdelaide Hills Pinot nose and some sweet 2K15 McLaren Vale bouquet and a tightly forward to. Stock upNoir 2015 HHH fruit flavours. $69.99 G.S.M. 2015 HHH structured, austere, fruit/ your cellars!Fresh light strawberry True to style with toasty oak palate withbouquet and a simple Giesen Single fresh grenache fruit hints of violets. Needsspicy varietal palate with Vineyard Clayvin dominating. Nice more time to reallya dry finish. $18 Marlborough Pinot nose and spicy palate. shine. $32Yarrawood Tall Tales Noir 2013 HHHYarra Valley Pinot A big, well-aged wine 5+ $24.99 Moss BrothersNoir 2015 HHH with spicy/sweet herbal Margaret RiverA complex but elegant fruit and fine drying Cabernet Merlotpinot. Light berry tannins. Good food 2015 HHHHaromas and lovely wine. $69.99 A classic cigar-box-likebalance of beetroot-like cabernet nose. Theflavours. $30 GRENACHE & lovely palate is long andWignalls Wines BLENDS very varietal with plentySingle Vineyard of fresh sweet fruit andGreat Southern 9 TASTED dusty oak in support.Pinot Noir 6 AWARDED $19.992015 HHHIntense stewed beet- A strong class. \"Often Hemera Estatelike aromas with light grenache works well as Bacchus Barossasweet strawberry fruit a blend which is what Cabernet Merlotflavours. $32 we are seeing here,\" 2015 HHH1/2Buttermans Track said one judge. \"These Attractive cassisYarra Valley Pinot wines do not overpower overtones to the noseNoir 2015 HHH with their spicy/savoury and good depth andFresh berry fragrances notes.\" vibrancy of sweet fruitwith smoky notes. on a very commercialFlavoursome varietal palate. $22palate; sweet oak inbackground. $40 The Wine & Spirit INSIDER 121

NEW RELEASES Taylors St Andrews Karrawatta Christo's DiGiorgio Family Brangayne Of Clare Valley Paddock Langhorne Wines Coonawarra Orange Orange Cabernet Sauvignon Creek Cabernet Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 HHHHH Sauvignon 2014 HHHH 2014 HHH Superb nose; a fresh 2014 HHHH1/2 Big advanced oaky/ A pleasant easy complexity of mocha \"This wine is all class,\" chocolaty bouquet. drinking style with good oak and berry fruit. enthused one judge. Excellent palate with presence of light fresh Nice warmth to the It has great colour, great depth of retained simple varietal fruit. $32 well-structured, beautiful ripe sweet varietal fruit nicely seamlessly balanced blackberry fragrances supported by the zesty SHIRAZ & palate with solid berry and a very youthful, but acidity. $26 BLENDS flavours. Great acid well-balanced palate. 2016-2015 finish. 5+ $65 Just needs time. $54 Casella 1919 South Casella Limited Australia Cabernet 29 TASTED Taylors Clare Valley Release South Sauvignon 18 AWARDED Cabernet Sauvignon Australia Cabernet 2010 HHHH 2015 HHHH1/2 Sauvignon A mature, complex This was a case of the Lifted nose with ripe, 2012 HHHH1/2 varietal that's amazingly very good, the bad and rich, varietal fruit aromas Cedar chest complexity oaky. Has smoky/nutty the ugly! \"This was of cassis and violets. to the nicely aged aromas and soft sweet not a plush vintage for Great palate; excellent bouquet. Excellent, fruit oak-driven flavours with shiraz, but there was depth of blackberry flavoured, palate, very some aged fruit. $100 well-handled oak across flavours. Fresh lively intense with plenty of the board,\" noted oneInner City acidity and a long soft drying oak to balance. GMH South judge. \"The high scorers finish. $19 Drinking well now. $45 Australia Cabernet were rewarded for theirWinemakers Hilltops Brand's Laira Sauvignon quality of fruit tonedCabernet Sauvignon One Seven One down by the oak.\"2015 HHHHH Coonawarra 2015 HHH1/2 Cabernet Sauvignon An oak-driven cabernetA fabulously powerful 2012 HHHH1/2 with firm berries pushingrich, ripe cabernet. It has A subtlety of well-a huge nose of prunes integrated fruit/oak through on the nose aromas and a lovely and lively fruit flavoursand jam and great depth rich cassis palate edged under the oak. 3-5of varietal flavours on with savoury notes. Hasthe long lingering palate. firm drying tannins and $20 powerful oak on theEnjoy now or in 10 years’ finish. $80 Basedow's B3time. 5+ $40 Z Wine Rustica Barossa Cabernet Barossa Valley Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 HHH1/2 2014 HHHH A classic cabernet. A tight, inky and quite Complex cigar box and mature nose with a cedar chest nose with a delightful sweet oak and lovely solid oak and sweet ripe fruit palate that's juicy fruit palate. $25 rich, complex and very flavoursome. $20 Millbrook Winery Lou Miranda Estate Estate Perth Hills Leone Barossa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 HHH1/2 2014 HHHH A ripe commercial style Quarisa Wines Dark chocolaty aromas with lovely chocolaty Enchanted Tree layered with intense characters interwoven South Australia cassis fruit characters. with bright cassis/ Cabernet Sauvignon Palate is dense, blackberry fruit. Oaky 2014 HHHH1/2 balanced and soft with finish. 5+ $35 Attractive complexity of a touch of oak on theHouse of blackberry and mocha- finish. $25.95 Kalleske Wines Wignalls WinesPlantagenet like aromas. Beautiful Merchant Barossa Great SouthernAquitaine Mount palate silky smooth Valley Cabernet Shiraz 2015 HHHHH palate - hugely varietal Sauvignon A gorgeous complexity with lovely dark cherry/ 2015 HHH of cranberries, rhubarb toasty oak flavours. Smells of choc mints and blue fruit aromas Tannic finish. $11.99 and blackcurrants. Tight with a peppery lift. young tannic palate with A tight, elegant,Barker Cabernet dark berry flavours. $28 \"controlled\" palate withSauvignon silky smooth fruit,2014 HHHHH supple tannins andGreat colour! Beautiful balancing acidity. $26complexity, generosityand length of cassisfruit with good use ofsweet oak to balanceand has a tight acidspine. Plenty of classhere! 5+ $35122 The Wine & Spirit INSIDER

wine & spirit insider tastingTaylors Harcourt Valley Gisa WinesClare Valley Shiraz Vineyards Moonshot 2K152015 HHHH1/2 Heathcote Shiraz McLaren Vale ShirazSpicy licorice characters 2015 HHHH1/2 2015 HHHHon the nose with light Cool climate peppery A big, generous and full-forest floor notes. fruit characters on the bodied dark berry fruitGenerous and rich in the nose and a tight and wine that's well framedmouth with peppery/ elegant palate with by the lovely oak. It hasdark chocolaty flavours jubey dark fruit flavours excellent depth and greatand good drive of firm and a tight line of acid in complexity. $19.99tight tannins. $19 support. Cranberry-likeTaylors finish. $25 GMH SouthReserve Parcel Australia ShirazClare Valley Shiraz Karrawatta 2015 HHHH2015 HHHH1/2 Dairy Block A big soft wine; a classicExcellent barrel ferment Adelaide Hills Shiraz Aussie style of shiraz.complexity obvious on 2015 HHHH1/2 Masses of dark licoriceythe porty/raisined nose. Aromas of ripe fruit, matched byNice blue fruit flavours raspberries mixed with chocolaty oak and finewith well-judged tannins malty oak and showing grained tannins. $20and nice oak nuances. a peppery lift. ClassyGreat aftertaste. $24 velvety smooth palate with flavours in the blue fruit spectrum. Subtle Cartel Padthaway tannins. $38 Shiraz 2015 HHHH A pretty wine with deep purple hues, chocolaty rhubarb aromas and a dark berry/mocha oak palate with fine grained tannins. $15 GRAND VIN DE World’s First Margaret River Cabernet & French Bordeaux Grand Cru BRYGON Master Blend Cabernet-Bordeaux Grand Cru “GRAND VIN DE BRYGON” A RARE AND **ONLY 300 BOTTLES** UNIQUE Limited International Release FRENCH + AUSTRALIAN What is believed to be an international first of it's kind, Brygon Reserve GRAND CRU Wines have created an epic international blend “Grand Vin de Brygon”. It MASTER BLEND is collaboration between award winning wines from two of the world's greatest wine growing regions of Margaret River, Western Australia and www.grandvindebrygon.com Saint Emilion, Bordeaux France. INDIVIDUALLY NUMBERED AND CERTIFIED This ground breaking partnership, is an impressive master blend of three award winning French Bordeaux Grand Cru's; blended with 2011 VINTAGE SMALL BATCH 001 - 300 Australia's Brygon Reserve's iconic Bin 8888 Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, a Winestate 5 star rated and 'Wine of the Year' nominee. This is the 2nd release of Grand Vin de Brygon, with the 2009 vintage astounding the Italian Sommeliers Association on it's debut at Vinitaly, one the world's largest and most respected international wine competitions in Verona, Italy. The 2009 Vintage was awarded an impressive 95 points, and was clearly a notable blend of French and Australian wines. Only a 'limited edition' small batch of 300 bottles were produced per vintage, all bearing individual hand written batch numbers accompanied with a certificate of authentication. This is a truly unique and rare ultra-premium red wine that encapsulates the best of both world famous regions of Margaret River and Bordeaux. 1000 per bottle ($1495 AUD RRP) Further information or to place an order: 0419 865 556 www.grandvindebrygon.com The Wine & Spirit INSIDER 123

NEW RELEASES Richard Hamilton Mollydooker Two RockBare Barossa 2 Mates McLaren Little Road McLaren Left Feet McLaren Babe Barossa Vale Shiraz Vale Shiraz Vale Langhorne Valley Shiraz 2014 HHH 2015 HHHH Creek Shiraz Merlot 2014 HHHH1/2 Mature chocolaty and A rich, ripe and very Cabernet Sauvignon Very classy lifted licoricey aromas. Very classy shiraz with an 2015 HHH peppery blueberry fruit ripe raspberry palate. abundance of blue/black Big, bold and a touch bouquet. Great palate; Powdery tannins. $35 fruit characters and hot with savoury/roast long and textured with cedary oak. Some black meat aromas and malty the dark berry fruit Z Wine Section pepper notes. $22 licorice palate. $28 seamlessly balanced by 3146 Barossa Valley the chocolaty oak. $45 Shiraz 2014 HHH RockBare SHIRAZ 2014 Spicy malty nose, McLaren Vale Quarisa Wines developing nicely. Shiraz 2015 HHHH 22 TASTED Enchanted Tree Simple sweet fruit Beautifully structured 13 AWARDED South Australia flavours, nice oak, and textured classic Shiraz 2014 HHHH slippery tannins. $35 shiraz. Lovely rhubarb/ Mixed group with some Mulberries and spices blue fruit fragrances strong wines whilst on the nose; hints of Taylors St Andrews and big oaky palate with others faltered. \"Many licorice. Seamlessly Clare Valley Shiraz stand-out acidity. $25 of these are ready to balanced palate with 2014 HHH drink; others are drying plush fruit and generous Peppery rhubarb Dog Leg South out,\" said one judge. tannins. \"Beautiful wine.\" bouquet, mature berry Australia \"Many winemakers are $11.99 palate, blocky tannins Shiraz VBBAEULSYUTSE following the trend of and high acidity. $65Eden Hall Springton 2015 HHH1/2 making early drinking Pertaringa TheEden Valley Shiraz Black fruit nose layered wines which could be Yeoman McLaren SHIRAZ 2013 &2015 HHHH with violets and spices. a problem after a few Vale Shiraz OLDERLifted spicy green olive Big tannic palate with years.\" 2014 HHHHnotes mingling with bright fruit and nice Savoury/meaty bouquet 5 TASTEDdark fruit aromas. Meaty sweet oak complexity. Wise Wine Sea with raisined fruit notes. 3 AWARDEDnotes with a dash of $13 Urchin Frankland Classy fleshy fruit palatepepper and spices on a River Shiraz - lots of oak, powdery A small class with onelong soft palate. $25 Ralph Fowler Mount 2014 HHHH1/2 tannins and tangy excellent wine and aStage Door Wine Co. Benson Shiraz Dense rich forest floor- acidity. $250 couple of good onesFront & Centre Eden 2015 HHH1/2 like characters on the hanging in nicely.Valley Shiraz Distinctive minty/ nose; some nuttiness Karrawatta Joseph2015 HHHH menthol cool area and spices. Good fruit Langhorne Creek Casella 1919Big dark berry fruit fruit characters. Some weight on the palate Shiraz 2014 HHH1/2 McLaren Vale Shiraznose; nice freshness of licorice on the nose and with soft dark berry Nose is a compote of 2010 HHHH1/2light charry oak. A tight good fruit weight on the fruit and supple tannins. blue fruits and plums Aged leathery redfruit cake of a palate palate. $30 $19.50 with a light spiciness. licorice bouquet with anunderscored by the soft Great fleshy and undercurrent of spices.tannins. $25 Kalleske Wines The Peer Langhorne flavoursome spicy Rich chocolaty palate Zeitgeist Barossa Creek Shiraz licorice palate. $54 with a range of spices, Valley Shiraz 2014 HHHH1/2 dusty tannins and a 2016 HHH Dark fruit cake-like Paringa VBBAEULSYUTSE drying finish. Great food Very fresh primary fruit nose with loads of SA Shiraz wine. $100 aromas with violet notes blackberries and 2014 HHH and a robust, intensely licorice. The powerful Dark fruit bouquet, some Casella Limited rich palate. $26 savoury palate has stalkiness and some Release McLaren fruit complexity and herbal notes. Tight clean Vale Shiraz Quarisa Wines The firm mouth puckering palate with elegant fruit. 2012 HHH1/2 Great Bonza South tannins. $24.90 $12.99 Malty oak aromas with East Australia Shiraz a hint of menthol and Cabernet Sauvignon Lou Miranda Estate 3 Rings VBBAEULSYUTSE olives. A full tannic 2015 HHH Leone Barossa Barossa Shiraz \"bruiser\" of a palate. \"Be Big chocolate cake of Valley Shiraz 2014 HHH great with roast beef.\" $45 a nose with an oak- 2014 HHHH1/2 Oak-dominated wine but dominated palate. The nose has lovely has light fresh raspberry Walter Wines Needs time. $11.99 dried fruit richness with fruit underneath and Federation Hill fresh oak complexity. peppery notes. $16.99 Single Vineyard Taylors Promised Sweet raspberry and Mudgee Shiraz Land South plums on the palate with Basedow's B3 2012 HHH Australia Shiraz silky smooth tannins and Barossa Shiraz Chocolaty nose with Cabernet 2015 HHH a crisp acid line. $25.95 2014 HHH light soy notes. Aged A light quaffer with hints Light malty/licorice coffee/mocha palate with of mint and pepper on elements to the nose “talc-y” tannins. $26 the nose and a spicy with bright generous fruit palate. $13 fruit flavours. $25124 The Wine & Spirit INSIDER

HOW WE JUDGE WINESTATE MAGAZINE TASTING CRITERIA OUR STAR RATING SYSTEM Our tastings and published ratings are designed with one thing in mind: to provide a useful and genuine balanced guide on wines to our readers. In order to achieve this we follow certain procedures in an activity that is notoriously difficult! There are regular criticisms of wine shows and various scoring systems; here is how we approach our tastings.A wide selection of wines there are unpleasant flavours. These advertise if they wish, their awarded final ‘medals’ are then converted into wine’s review will be featured regardlessWines are invited from any producer, a star rating system for publication in of advertising. The judges’ decisions areprovided that they meet the criteria Winestate. A gold means 5 stars, silver final and these are published accordingof the class being judged. The class is 4, and bronze is 3 stars. to the judges’ scores, whether advertisingmay be a regional, style or new release is taken or not.tasting and generally the wines must be The biggest judging systemavailable for consumers to purchase, The judgesalthough we have museum and rare Winestate examines on average morewine tastings as well. Australasian wines per year than We take care in selecting our judges. any other forum - more than 10,000. But remember: judges are human andAwarding scores Compare this to the biggest show in their own preference will influence Australia, the royal Melbourne wine their scores. We use judges withWinestate carries out the judging show, with just over 4000 entries. complementary backgrounds and ausing Australian capital city wine show three-person panel for each flight willprocedures; the wines are not known Independence of advertising include winemakers with technicalto the judges. The three judges taste expertise and often a marketing/retailthe wines blind and assign a score Winestate does charge a nominal expert who knows consumer tastes.without reference to each other. Once entrance fee for wines submitted which Often one or more of the judges arethis is done, only then do they compare covers our administration costs only, masters of wine with vast internationalscores, and if there is dissension they and will often purchase ‘yardstick’ experience, and most judges havere-taste the wines and come to an wines to be evaluated where we believe experience at major Australian wineagreement. Scores are compiled using that these are of consumer or trade shows. We are also aware of expertise.the 20-point international system: gold interest if these have not been entered If we are judging a region, for example,is 18.5 and above; silver is 17 and by the wineries. In order to produce we will have a winemaker judge fromabove and is an excellent wine; bronze the biggest and best wine magazine, that region because that person knowsis 15.5 and above and represents good Winestate includes advertising; the local style. We balance that withwine. A reasonable, sound everyday- however, this is fiercely independent a judge from outside the region anddrinking wine scores 15 (but does of any wine tasting editorial. Wine generally someone with broad andnot gain a medal). A bland but clean companies are advised of the blind mature experience.wine scores 14. Below this score tasting results and it is their choice toHOW WE COMPAREWinestate Rating Comment Wine show Medal International 20 100 Point System Point System HHHHH Outstanding Gold 18.5 - 20 97 - 100 HHHH1/2 Excellent High Silver 95 - 96 Very Good 18 - 18.4 93 - 94 HHHH Silver 91 - 92 HHH1/2 Good/Very Good High Bronze 17 - 17.9 89 - 90 Good HHH Bronze 16.5 - 16.9 15.5 - 16.4 Wine judging is an inexact art, not a science - even at the highest levels of proficiency. Accordingly, Winestate uses the star ratingsystem which reflects a range, rather than a specific point score. Point systems indicate a level of accuracy that simply does not exist. The Wine & Spirit INSIDER 125

BEST VALUE BUYS - All under $20Zonte's Footstep Bolle Dog Leg South Australia Dog Leg South Australia Syn McLaren Vale CuvéeFelici Fleurieu Peninsula Sparkling Moscato 2016 Sparkling Chardonnay Blanc NVProsecco NV Fresh lifted aromatic Brut NVAromatic muscaty aromas muscat fruit nose and Nice nuttiness to the nose. Slightly sweet style that hasand a lively, persistent sweet citric palate. Great Simple creamy palate a fresh and lively floral noseand flavoursome balance for the style. $13 with moderate, slightly with a citrussy palate. $18sherbety palate. $18 sweet, flavours. $13 Amadio Wines Leconfield Wines Pty Ltd / RichardZonte’s Footstep Phone: +61 08 8365 5988 Amadio Wines HamiltonPhone: +61 08 8383 2032 Email: [email protected] Phone: +61 08 8365 5988 Phone: +61 08 8323 8830Email: [email protected] Web: www.amadiowines.com Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]: www.zontesfootstep.com.au Web: www.amadiowines.com Web: www.leconfieldwines.comBEST VALUE WINES OF AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND$U2N0DE&R Is updated in each issue of The Wine & Spirit Insider. TO QUALIFY (NZ $25 & UNDER) Some wines may - if they are still available - remain in the next issue’s Best Value Wines listing. Others 1 Wines must have first been recommended will sell out, or be replaced by higher-rated wines. in Winestate Magazine style or new release The Wine & Spirit Insider’s Best Value Wines listing tastings. Style tastings are defined as varietal comprises the best wines currently available, from big- tastings - eg, shiraz, chardonnay, etc. - or name brands and the higher volume ‘second labels’ blended styles such as shiraz/cabernet wines. from the smaller producers, as tasted by Winestate 2 Wines from designated regional tastings Magazine panels. The Best Value Wines listing gives are eligible provided they are widely available. credit to the value wines in the marketplace - wines 3 All wines must be currently available from that would otherwise be overshadowed by their much the winery, or be readily available in the more expensive cousins. marketplace. Cellar door wine is ineligable.126 The Wine & Spirit INSIDER

Corte Carista Veneto Castell de Ribes Brut Andrew Garrett SEA Rutherglen Estates SingleProsecco NV Nature Catalonia Spain Sparkling Shiraz NV Vineyard RutherglenNutty nose with a light Cava NV Ruby red wine with a spicy Arneis 2016perfumed lift and palate A complexity of nutty floral plum bouquet and a soft Very intense lifted tropicalwith a sweet citrus profile. aromatics and a dry savoury fleshy cherry palate with floral fragrances. Well balancedGood acid spine. $9.99 palate with bright acid and nice level of tannins. $14.99 palate; flavours of apples and good flavour persistence. $20 pears with a mineral spine. $18Aldi Stores Vok BeveragesPhone: +61 02 9675 9382 Flox Wines Phone: +61 08 8182 1841 Rutherglen EstatesWeb: www.aldi.com.au Phone: +61 03 9464 7299 Email: [email protected] Ph: +61 02 6032 7999 Web: www.floxwines.com.au Web: www.vok.com.au E: [email protected] Web: www.rutherglenestates.com.au The Wine & Spirit INSIDER 127

BEST VALUE BUYS - All under $20Hoggies Estate Dog Leg Western Australia Rutherglen Estates Yours Truly LimestoneCoonawarra Sauvignon Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Pinot Grigio 2016 Coast Chardonnay 2014Blanc 2015 Shy nose starting toLifted ripe tropical bouquet Light simple quaffer with Smells of fresh pears with show some development.with some herbal touches slightly aromatic nose a hint of lemon. Palate Palate has butteryand great balance of and tight line of punchy is tight and racy with secondary characters. $9fruit flavours. Developing tropical flavours. $13 green apple flavours. $18well. Drink soon. $14.99 Amadio Wines Rutherglen Estates Limestone Coast WineryHoggies Estate (Stentiford Pty Ltd) Phone: +61 08 8365 5988 Phone: +61 02 6032 7999 Phone: +61 0448 404 300Phone: 0418 854102 Email: [email protected] E: [email protected] Email: [email protected]: [email protected] Web: www.amadiowines.com Web: www.rutherglenestates.com.au Web: www.lcw.net.auWeb: www.hoggieswine.com PUBLIC TASTING BEST WEST~ OF THE ~ Best of the West ~ 500 of the best wines from WA Friday 20 January 2017 ~ 6pm - 8.30pm ~ Perth Hyatt Regency Ballroom Winestate magazine Subscribers can be allocated TWO free tickets upon request. Additional tickets $50 each Ticket requests ~ [email protected] or call 08 8357 9277128 The Wine & Spirit INSIDER

Penola Estate Coonawarra Motique Limestone Coast Paringa South Australia 3 Rings BarossaCabernet Sauvignon 2013 Shiraz 2014 Shiraz 2014 Shiraz 2014 Oak dominated wine butNicely developing, well A sound wine with a red Dark fruit bouquet, some has light fresh raspberryrounded cabernet with berry bouquet and sweet stalkiness and some herbal fruit underneath andgenerosity, intensity and length red fruit flavours layered notes. Tight clean palate peppery notes. $16.99of earthy chocolaty aromas with vanilla oak and laced with elegant fruit. $12.99and beautifully balanced with nice spicy notes. $9 III Rings Pty Ltdripe fruit flavours. Tannins Paringa Vineyard -The ARH Phone: +61 0406 537 660are present but subtle. $13 Limestone Coast Winery Australian Wine Co. Email: [email protected] Phone: +61 0448 404 300 Phone: +61 0406 537 660 Web: www.3rings.com.auFirst Choice Liquor Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]: 1300 308 833 Web: www.lcw.net.au Web: www.paringa.netEmail: [email protected]: www.firstchoiceliquor.com.au WINESTATE MAGAZINE WORLDS BEST SHIRAZ COMPETITION BEST IN CLASS - ($15 - $20)BAROSSA SHIRAZ 2015 The Wine & Spirit INSIDER 129

BEST VALUE BUYS - All under $20Yours Truly Mt Benson Penola Estate Dog Leg South Australia The Tutor 570 VinesShiraz 2013 Coonawarra Shiraz 2014 Shiraz 2015 Coonawarra CabernetA lovely wine; an excellent Black fruit nose layered with Sauvignon 2014example of shiraz. Has spicy Simple floral aromas with a violets and spices. Big tannicaromas and a palate dense with delicate violet-like lift. Some palate with bright fruit and nice Earthy cassis fruit nose andspicy berry fruit, vanilla oak and lovely acidity on the palate and sweet oak complexity. $13 nicely integrated savourygrippy tannins. $9 fine tannins that all supports the palate with a hint of vanilla and spicy peppery varietal fruit. $13 Amadio Wines rounded tannins. \"Perfect withLimestone Coast Winery Phone: +61 08 8365 5988 a steak.\" $14Phone: +61 0448 404 300 First Choice Liquor Email: [email protected]: [email protected] Phone: 1300 308 833 Web: www.amadiowines.com First Choice LiquorWeb: www.lcw.net.au Email: customerservice@ Phone: 1300 308 833 firstchoiceliquor.com.au Email: customerservice@ Web: www.firstchoiceliquor.com.au firstchoiceliquor.com.au Web: www.firstchoiceliquor.com.authe wine & spiritA U S T R A L I A N & N E W Z E A L A N D Issue 150 | November/December 2016Editor & Publisher Winestate Web Site electronic medium or machine-readable form without E-mail: [email protected] the express permission of the publisher. Every care isPeter Simic E-mail: [email protected] taken in compiling the contents of this publication, butManaging Editor Printing DAI Rubicon the publisher assumes no responsibility for the effects Website: www.distalliance.com arising therefrom. ABN 56 088 226 411Lara Simic E-mail: [email protected] Bozsoki E-mail: [email protected] Designer WINESTATE is published seven times a year by Winestate Publishing Pty Ltd.Naomi Fry E-mail: [email protected] WINESTATE PUBLISHING PTY LTD, Telephone (08) 8357 9277Marketing Manager 81 King William Road, Unley SA 5061. Facsimile (08) 8357 9212 Copyright 2016 by WINESTATE PUBLISHING PTY LTD. E-mail [email protected] Jackson E-mail: [email protected] This publication may not, in whole or in part, be copied, Website www.winestate.com.auTasting Coordinator photocopied, reproduced, translated or reduced to any E-mail: [email protected] The Wine & Spirit INSIDER

PLEASE SEND ME MAGAZINE FOR:AUSTRALIA & NEW take out a subscription and save! Australia 7 issues (1yr) $A69 (includes $6.27 GST) ZEALAND WINE BUYING GUIDE 14 issues (2yrs) $A128 (includes $11.64 GST) Price include GST, postage and handling. New Zealand Binders SUBSCRIBE TO Price includes Airmail. Australian residents only OUR COMPLETE Please mark 8 one option: Your attractive binder easily holds 7 issues - PACKAGE 7 issues (1 year) $A79 handy for quick reference! 14 issues (2 years) $A150 This includes hard-copy and digital Please mark 8 one option: versions plus full on-line access to Asia, Pacific 1 Binder $A19.80 Winestate’s web site and reviews. Price includes Airmail. Please mark 8: Available only through online order, 2 Binders $A33 7 issues (1 year) $A120 www.winestate.com.au 3 Binders $A49.50 Elsewhere (includes GST) Price includes Airmail. Please mark 8: Prices available for 7 issues (1 year) $A130 overseas on application. Mr / Mrs / Miss State Country SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 WINESTATE VOL 38 ISSUE 5 THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO WINE SINCE 1978 Over 10,000 tasted annually Address Phone ( ) Suburb Post Code AUSTRALIA & NEW ZZEEAALLAANNDDWWIINNEE BBUUYYIINNGG GGUUIIDDEE E-mail MAINFREIGHT Your subscription will start from the next issue. World's greatest shiraz ChalleNge X seMilloN riVer regioNs Yarra YalleY & soUtherN ViCtoria otago, Nz WORLD’S GREATEST SYRAH & SHIRAZ I enclose my cheque for $ OV E R 5 0 0 TA S T E D Featuring payable to WINESTATE Magazine or charge my: Bird in Hand Mastercard Visa Penfolds Grange Paul Jaboulet Henschke Hill of Grace Torbreck The Laird Gralyn Estate JAPAN’S Emerging Wine Culture PINOT CENTRAL Otago’s claim to fame Name on card: PRINT POST APPROVEd 100003663 September/October 2015 spiritLifwe inothreld Vol 38 Issue 5 The evolution of Cognac $12.00 AUS (inc GST) NZ $13.00 SGD $17.95 Brandy, Cognac & Armagnac Semillon & Blends US $17.99 GBP £10.95 Yarra Valley & Southern Victoria River Regions Otago (NZ) EUR 9.95 China RMB100 HKD $120 CHF 15.00 Signature Expires / plus Send to: 81 King William Road, Unley SA 5061 Fax to: 08 8357 9212 271_CoverFRONT216x297.indd 1 23/07/2015 3:06:55 PM GIFT SUBSCRIPTION Why not give a Recipient’s Name gift subscription? Address Call us today on +61 8 8357 9277 or visit Suburb State Country www.winestate.com.au Post Code Phone ( ) Please send a gift card to Me Recipient Also fill in your details in the section above. The Wine & Spirit INSIDER 131

winestatepromotion DARWIN DINING SHOWCASES DIVERSITYVisitors to Darwin are frequently delighted by the diversity of quality dining options now available in Australia’s northernmost city. Territorianslove their food and with a population representing over 40 different nationalities, cuisine in the vibrant local restaurant scene reflects thataccordingly. The tropical climate also means Darwin is tailor-made for al fresco dining for much of the year and there is ready access tofresh seafood including the world-famous NT ‘barra’ and Gulf Region prawns, premium Territory beef and creative Asian-fusion cuisine.A raft of new restaurants and cafes, as well as some of the city’s long-standing favourites, provide a range of dining options for visitors.These include: CHAR Char is renowned as a place to impress, with its innovative cuisine, exceptional service, charming gardens and beautiful surrounds in Heritage-listed Admiralty House, right in the CBD. 70 The Esplanade CHOW LITTLE MISS KOREA South East Asian tastes are on show One of Darwin’s ‘hidden gems’, this here, combined with delicious fresh, local Korean BBQ Restaurant is located in a produce. Healthy and tasty pho, laksa and trendy industrial-style venue and provides other colourful dishes, all served with a a la carte meals, express lunches and dose of light-hearted Territory irreverence renowned hot grill cuisine. and fun. Austin Lane (just off Knuckey Street) Darwin Waterfront, 19 Kitchener Drive www.travelnt.comwww.ntconventions.com.au 132 The Wine & Spirit INSIDER

MINDIL BEACH PEE WEE’S AT THE POINTSUNSET MARKETS Its leafy, parkland setting in Darwin’sDarwin’s open-air markets are legendary East Point Reserve makes dining on Peeand provide an opportunity to not only Wee’s deck, in its louvred pavilion or in themeet the locals and shop but also dine on surrounding gardens a special Territoryfabulous multicultural cuisine. Operating experience, enhanced by extensive viewsevery Thursday and Sunday evening from across the bay. Menus reflect fresh local NTlate April till October, over 200 stalls offer produce and seasonal specialities.more than 1200 different menu items. Alex Fong Lim Drive, East Point ReserveMindil Beach Reserve WHARF ONEDARWIN SAILING CLUB Wharf One Food & Wine specialises inQuintessential Darwin, the Waterfront wood grill cooking and seasonal localBistro is one of the city’s most relaxed produce. Next door, il lido BARpizza servesdining locations, overlooking a stunning up pizzas and burgers whilst nearby, craftblue-water bay. Burgers, wraps, flame beer specialist The Precinct Tavern deliversgrilled steaks, pastas and local seafood casual dining.and home-made desserts, just like Mum Darwin Waterfront, 19 Kitchener Driveused to make.Atkins Drive, Fannie Bay PM EAT & DRINK This popular Darwin Tapas Bar serves delicious food designed for sharing. Fresh local NT produce cooked simply but beautifully, served by friendly staff. Corner Knuckey Street & Austin Lane www.tourismnt.com The Wine & Spirit INSIDER 133

134 The Wine & Spirit INSIDER

contact detailsCHAMPAGNE & SPARKLING HUNTER VALLEY Church Road Wines (Pernod Ricard NZ) Majella Wines Phone: +64 6 833 8234 Phone: +61 08 8736 3055Aldi Stores Australian Vintage Limited Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]: +61 02 9675 9382 Phone: +61 08 8172 8333 Web: www.church-road.co.nz Web: www.majellawines.com.auWeb: www.aldiliquor.com.au Email: [email protected] Web: www.avl.com.au Saint Clair Family Estate Norfolk Rise VineyardBottega Rotolo Phone: +64 3 578 8695 Phone: +61 08 8768 5080Phone: +61 08 8362 0455 Midnight’s Promise Estate & Wines Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]: [email protected] Phone: +61 02 9235 3947 Web: www.saintclair.co.nz Web: www.norfolkrise.com.auWeb: www.bottegarotolo.com.au Email: [email protected] Web: www.midnightspromise.com.au LIMESTONE COAST Patrick of CoonawarraBream Creek Vineyard Phone: +61 08 8737 3687Phone: +61 03 6231 4646 Pokolbin Estate Vineyard Blok Estate Email: [email protected]: [email protected] Phone: +61 02 4998 7524 Phone: +61 08 8737 2734 Web: www.patrickofcoonawarra.comWeb: www.breamcreekvineyard.com.au Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Web: www.pokolbinestate.com.au Web: www.blok.com.au NEW RELEASESFestival City Wine & SpiritsPhone: +61 08 8349 1200 Topper’s Mountain Wines Bowen Estate Amphora Wine GroupEmail: [email protected] Phone: +61 0411 880 580 Phone: +61 8 8737 2229 Phone: +61 08 8331 8459Web: www.festivalcitywines.com.au Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Web: www.toppers.com.au Web: www.bowenestate.com.au Web: www.amphorawines.com.auMajella WinesPhone: +61 08 8736 3055 HAWKE’S BAY Giggling Goose Wines Artwine Pty LtdEmail: [email protected] Phone: +61 0438 656 012 Phone: +61 08 8389 9399Web: www.majellawines.com.au Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Web: www.gigglinggoose.com.au Web: www.artwine.com.auSchild Estate Askerne Vineyard (NZ)Phone: +61 08 8524 5560 Phone: +64 6 877 6085 Hoggies Estate (Stentiford Pty Ltd) Bonking FrogEmail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Phone: +61 0418 854 102 Phone: +61 0408 930 332Web: www.schildestate.com.au Web: www.askerne.co.nz Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Web: www.hoggieswine.com Web: www.bonkingfrog.com.au November/December 2016 W I N E S TAT E 135

contact details DiGiorgio Family Wines NORTH EAST VICTORIA Phone: +61 08 8736 3222 Follow us and keep up Email: [email protected] All Saints Estate & St Leonards Vineyard to date with all our latest Web: www.digiorgio.com.au Phone: +61 02 6035 2217 wine info, tastings and Email: [email protected] Eden Hall Wines Web: www.allsaintswine.com.au events on facebook, Phone: +61 08 8562 4590 twitter and instagram. Email: [email protected] Eaglerange Estate Wines Web: www.edenhall.com.au Phone: +61 03 5752 2518 Winestate Magazine Email: [email protected] @WinestateEd Fogarty Wine Group Web: www.eaglerangeestate.com.au Phone: +61 8 9282 5450 Email: [email protected] NEW ZEALAND RECENT RELEASE Web: www.fogartywines.com.au Domain Road Vineyard Giesen Wines Phone: +64 021 224 7661 Phone: +64 3 344 6270 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Web: www.domainroad.co.nz Web: www.giesen.co.nz Endeavor Vineyards/Catalina Sounds Hand Crafted by Geoff Hardy Phone: +64 3 579 6148 Phone: +61 (08) 8388 3700 Email: [email protected] E: [email protected] Web: www.catalinasounds.co.nz W: www.handcraftedbygeoffhardy.com.au Loveblock Vintners Ltd (NZ) Inner City Winemakers Phone: +64 9 373 3574 Phone: +61 02 4962 3545 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Web: www.loveblockwine.com Plantagenet Wines Saint Clair Family Estate Phone: +61 08 9851 3131 Phone: +64 3 578 8695 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Web: www.plantagenetwines.com Web: www.saintclair.co.nz Quarisa Wines PINOT NOIR Phone: +61 02 6963 6222 Email: [email protected] Brown Brothers Web: www.quarisa.com.au Phone: +61 03 5720 5467 Email: [email protected] Reillys Wines Web: www.brownbrothers.com.au Phone: +61 08 8358 0480 Email: [email protected] Nazaaray Estate Winery Web: www.reillyswines.com.au Phone: +61 03 5989 0126 Email: [email protected] Springton Hills Wines Web: www.nazaaray.com.au Phone: +61 8337 7905 Email: [email protected] Paringa Estate Web: www.springtonhillwines.com.au Phone: +61 03 5989 2669 Email: [email protected] Stage Door Wine Co. Web: www.paringaestate.com.au Phone: +61 0400 991 968 Email: [email protected] Patrick of Coonawarra Web: www.stagedoorwineco.com.au Phone: +61 08 8737 3687 Email: [email protected] Vok Beverages Web: www.patrickofcoonawarra.com Phone: +61 08 8182 1841 Email: [email protected] BEST VALUE BUYS Web: www.vok.com.au Wignalls Wines Phone: +61 08 9841 2848 Email: [email protected] Web: www.wignallswines.com.au Aldi Stores Phone: +61 02 9675 9382 Web: www.aldi.com.au Amadio Wines Phone: +61 08 8365 5988 Email: [email protected] Web: www.amadiowines.com Flox Wines Phone: +61 03 9464 7299 Web: www.floxwines.com.au136 W I N E S TAT E November/December 2016

III Rings Pty Ltd SUBSCRIBE TO OURPhone: +61 0406 537 660 COMPLETE PACKAGEEmail: [email protected]: www.3rings.com.au which includes hard-copy and digital versions plus full on-line access to Winestate’s web site and reviews.Leconfield Wines Pty Ltd/ Richard Hamilton Available only through online order, www.winestate.com.auPhone: +61 08 8323 8830Email: [email protected]: www.leconfieldwines.comLimestone Coast WineryPhone: +61 0448 404 300Email: [email protected]: www.lcw.net.auParinga Vineyard - The ARH AustralianWine Co.Phone: +61 0406 537 660Email: [email protected]: www.paringa.netRutherglen EstatesPhone: +61 02 6032 7999Email: [email protected]: www.rutherglenestates.com.auVok BeveragesPhone: +61 08 8182 1841Email: [email protected]: www.vok.com.auZonte’s FootstepPhone: +61 08 8383 2032Email: [email protected]: www.zontesfootstep.com.au GIFT SUBSCRIPTION Tel: 08 8357 9277 www.winestate.com.au November/December 2016 W I N E S TAT E 137

aftertasteELISABETH KINGVODKA STIRS THE SPIRIT WORLDWITH all the blather about the re-emergence new developments, vodka doesn’t have of fresh, local and seasonal ingredients.of gin, it’s easy to forget that vodka is still the to place all its eggs in one demographic Icelandic vodkas made with glacier watermost popular spirit in the world. Beluga, the basket and attracts consumers of all ages and rural tipples from Sweden made fromRussian super-premium vodka, launched and tastes. virgin new potatoes aren’t rarities anymore.into the Australian market in August. The RubyBlue Irish Potato Vodka from Hughesreason? According to this year’s ALSA- One of the best books I read last year Craft Distillery in Ulster won a silver medalIRI State of the Industry Report, vodka was Vodka: How A Colorless, Odorless, last year at a major competition in New York.accounts for 64 per cent of the light spirits Flavorless Spirit Conquered America, by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, the life’s work ofmarket in Australia valued at $841 million. Victorino Matus. The fast-paced tome traces Texan Bert “Tito” Beveridge, is the fastest-Like Madonna, vodka is a master of the massive ad and marketing campaigns growing vodka brand in the US. In May thisreinvention fueled by double-digit growth of the 1960s and ’70s, and the unlikely year, Jelleys Vodka from Northamptonshirein newly introduced premium brands and success of French vodka - Grey Goose - in was voted the UK’s most popular craft spiritthe continued popularity of upscale brands the ‘90s. Matus also explains the economics, in a nationwide Twitter campaign.such as Absolut, Smirnoff, Grey Goose, the companies and the characters behindBelvedere and more. the vodka boom, singling out celebrity The major drag on Australia’s craft distilling brands from stars such as Dan Aykroyd industry remains one of the highest spirit It’s the same the world over, says global and CeeLo Green, and the emergence of taxes in the world. The Australian Distillersresearcher Technavio in its latest report. craft distillers who have added a new twist Association has submitted a white paper toThe highest value vodka market is the US, to the spirit’s image. the federal government to reconsider thewhere sales have risen to $US6.3 billion issue. Other countries face similar barriers($A8 billion) - 32 per cent of all spirits The red-hot craft to growth. Scotland’s budding craft spiritssales volume. Poland is the leading vodka industry also called for a duty rebate lastproducing country in the EU, with 20 per cent cocktail scene has year, similar to the one that stimulated theof its production earmarked for the US and craft beer industry in the country in 2002.other European markets. Swedish vodka, welcomed vodka intoled by Absolut, is widely acknowledged It’s possible to make vodka in everyas the world’s largest exported vodka, with the hipster fold. country from a laundry list of starches, fromannual exports totalling over 100 million potatoes to wheat. A happenstance thatlitres - around 99 per cent of Sweden’s When classic cocktails first emerged as translates as a marketer’s dream, Jasonoutput. Not that the Swedes go thirsty, says a trend, mixologists in the US and Australia Crawley, managing director of The DrinkTechnavio. The hard-drinking descendants tended to ignore vodka in favour of more Cabinet, told the Sydney Morning Heraldof the Vikings are expected to skol $US102.7 flavourful gin, rum, tequila and whiskies. recently. “Local spirit brands are literallymillion ($A 133 million) worth a year by 2019. But the red-hot craft cocktail scene has 2 per cent of the market,” he said. “Even welcomed vodka into the hipster fold. though they are very active on social media Versatility has been the key to vodka’s In Chicago recently, I enjoyed a Modest and in influential bars, the Australian spiritdecades-long supremacy. Unflavoured Mule, a take on the classic Moscow Mule, industry is still in the birthing stage,” he said.vodka accounts for the lion’s share of sales made with small-batch artisan vodka, freshin all major markets but the popularity of lemon juice and boutique ginger beer. The babies are growing fast, though. Keyvodkas flavoured with fruits, vegetables, The bartender described the creation as Sydney bars are serving Small Mouth, a craftspices and even bubble gum and bacon elevated simplicity because of the high vodka made in Pokolbin, NSW, by Chriswill continue to soar over the next five quality ingredients. Payton and Rohan Rivett, two 20-somethingyears because of their appeal to younger enthusiasts. Other names to chase downconsumers, says Technavio. They have also Craft vodka makers have brought a serious include Archie Rose, the first distillery tobeen instrumental in vodka gaining a bigger spirit back into making “little water”, as the open in Sydney for 160 years, Alpine Vodkafoothold in today’s global cocktail culture. Russians call vodka, emphasising the use from White Possum and Hippocampus fromTogether with on-going premiumisation and Western Australia. Nazdarovya, mate.next issue: My how time flies when you’re having fun! It’s time to celebrate with the best of the best in our Wine of the Year Awards issue. If that wasn’t enough to get you in the silly season spirit, why not enjoy our tastings of riesling, sauvignon blanc & blends, pinot gris/grigio, rosé and Queensland wines.138 W I N E S TAT E November/December 2016

MEMBER EVENTS JOIN US TODAY!NOVEMBER 2016 By becoming a Winestate Member you will receive complimentaryQUEENSTOWN NZ - Wine of the Year Awards Lunch tickets to our events!18 November 2016 - Gantleys of Queenstown (NZ)Winestate Subscribers - NZD$95 p/p, Non-Subscribers -NZD$180 p/pADELAIDE - Wine of the Year Awards24 November 2016 - Adelaide Convention Centre(Trade only)JANUARY 2017PERTH - 2017 Cathay Pacific Best of the WestFriday 20th January, 2017 - Perth Hyatt Regency Hotel,Riverside Ballroom(Tickets available now - Subscribers receive twocomplementary tickets upon request)APRIL 2017ADELAIDE - Cabernet & Bordeaux tastingFriday 7th April 2017 - National Wine Centre Adelaide(Tickets available early 2017 - Subscribers receive onecomplementary ticket upon request)ITALY - Wines of Australia - Vinitaly9 -12 April, 2017 - Veronafiere, Verona, (Italy)Contact [email protected] regarding tickets(Tickets available early 2017)MAY 2017ADELAIDE - Mainfreight International World’s GreatestShiraz Challenge XIIFriday 26th May 2017 - National Wine Centre Adelaide(Tickets available early 2017 - Subscribers receive onecomplementary ticket upon request)MELBOURNE - Winestate Wine of the YearSubscriber TastingSaturday 6 May 201712 noon – 4pmNillumbik Cellars11 Chute Street, Diamond Creek (Melbourne)(Tickets available early 2017 - Subscribers receive twocomplementary tickets upon request - [email protected])SEPTEMBER 2017ADELAIDE - Winestate Wine of the YearAustralia & NZFriday 1st September 2017National Wine Centre Adelaide(Tickets available mid 2017 - Subscribers receiveone complementary ticket upon request)

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