With Richard Slater & Grant Foulkes
RICHARD SAYS
Morris Classic Liqueur Muscat
17.5% Rutherglen, Victoria
RRP $25
World class fortified wines (muscat and topaques) are grown and made in North-eastern Victoria, with Rutherglen a centre of excellence. Grapes picked late, kept for years in large oak barrels, then blended to combine freshness and lusciousness is an expensive, time-consuming skill. Morris exhibit in Australian wine shows, winning many trophies with these styles, their inherent sugar levels submerged by natural acidity. “Classic” sits below “Grand” and “Rare”, but it’s easy to appreciate this wine’s attractiveness.
Bright mahogany in colour, it flaunts its raisin, roses, fruitcake and sweet spices; it’s lush, with some mocha joining the dried fruit flavours; it has a lingering finish that is bright, sweet yet not cloying, insistent on further sampling. Best enjoyed contemplating an open fire with a “film noir” or breezy, witty company.
Conclusion: Not just for the middle-aged; give the style a try – satisfaction is guaranteed.
GRANT SAYS:
Coriole Dancing Fig 2017
Mourvedre/Grenache/Shiraz
RRP $27
If I had to pick an all-time favourite winery, hands down I’d choose Coriole. It’s a slice of Tuscany and just an hour drive south of Adelaide in one of Australia’s most iconic regions, Mclaren Vale. If you can’t find the time to head on over there, give them a call and see to it that you have a box of their range sent to your door. The Dancing Fig is a wine for any occasion and impossible not to enjoy. Fresh and vibrant, you’ll enjoy an array of red and blue fruit bursting out of the glass. It’s medium body allows plentiful slurpability but it’s the balance and poise which raises the eyebrows, and tips the hat to the wine-making. It’s dusty, velvety tannins and soft acidity will have you craving more. Seriously, every one of their wines displays exceptional value for money.
Conclusion: Help wash down chargrilled rissoles, potato salad and leafy greens.
