With Richard Slater & Grant Foulkes
RICHARD SAYS:
2017 Stonier Chardonnay
13.5% Mornington Peninsula, Victoria
RRP $25
Widely available (with luck under $20); this is a standout cool-climate wine – a deliberate mix of barrel and tank fermentation, some malo, some lees stirring- a broad range of winemaking techniques artfully combined that puts many more expensive Chardonnays to shame.
And it’s so much better than a casual quaffer; this wine keeps offering more with each taste. Aromas include chalk, honey, nougat, mineral, and citrus; the palate has super energy – grapefruit freshness, light toast, subtle oak, and a long, textured creamy carry. Roast chicken, pasta with creamy sauces, or chickpea salads beckon.
Conclusion: terroir, talent and taste are on display. The bottle seems to empty itself!
GRANT SAYS:
2016 Bannockburn Sauvignon Blanc
13.0% Moorabool Valley, Victoria
RRP $30
You won’t hear me recommend too many Sauvignon Blancs but here is a wine that proves you must never say ‘never’ and always approach a varietal (even if it’s far from your favourite) with an open mind. Bannockburn is right up there. If you ever get your hands on any of their wines, please invite me over and I’ll enjoy it with you. I took a bottle of this out to Yim Yams in Yarraville with my in-laws and it went down a treat. This wine has seen some skin contact and barrel fermentation as well as tank: all of which provide added depth, complexity and longevity. Subtle grassy and zesty citrus notes over the palate, surprising white flowers on the nose and an uncharacteristic rich texture. Bravo Bannockburn.
Conclusion: Pair with that Duck Red Curry at Yim Yams….
