With Richard Slater & Grant Foulkes
RICHARD SAYS:
2018 Petaluma (White Label) Chardonnay
13.5% Adelaide Hills, South Australia,
RRP $24
The Adelaide Hills are riddled with pockets, gullies, twisting roads, scenic vistas – and vines. Petaluma’s “entrylevel” Chardonnay reflects many years of wine-making knowledge, experience, and sensitivity to its longstanding fruit sources.
This is a bright, full-flavoured young wine. It is ripe, but owns a twang of acidity that keeps it fresh and compelling. Animated scents of nectarine, lemon peel and nougat abound; the wine over-delivers on the palate with a lush oatmeally
texture; light tropical fruit flavours emerge too and the wine completes its role with crisp, clean, vibrancy. It will provide enormous drinking pleasure now and over the next few years. Pan-fried salmon, a chicken stir-fry, or many dishes with a creamy sauce would make a delightful pairing.
Conclusion: a powerful, value-for money wine that will maintain interest before, during, and after a meal.
GRANT SAYS:
2018 Barfold Estate Viognier
14% Heathcote, Victoria,
RRP $18
Barfold is a family owned winery in the stunning SW pocket of Heathcote’s larger than expected region. I paid a visit to Barfold’s viticulturist and winemaker Sandra (and her 8-month old puppy, Hugo) where she welcomed me into her big shed which doubles as her cellar door and wine making facility.
We tried a couple of this year’s wines still in the tank and yet to be bottled. Such a great experience and I highly recommend dropping by!
Her 2018 Viognier displays rich peach and melon aromas and a surprisingly punchy palate due to a good lick of French oak yet the smooth, apricot and vanilla finish is where the uniqueness of the Viognier really shines through.
Drink straight out of the fridge and enjoy the nuanced shift in flavours and aromas as it’s brought to room temperature.
Conclusion: Pair with grandma’s apricot chicken!
