GRANT SAYS
Tellurian ‘Sommet’ Shiraz 2022
RRP $80 ABV 14.4%
Heathcote is a shorter drive from the inner west than what we might realise. Dodging the peak times will get you into the heart of its gorgeously rustic wine county in bang on ninety minutes. I’ve found myself there a number of times and whenever I ask a local wine lover where to go, they always mention Tellurian. And if it’s popular with the locals, it’s bound to be worth a visit. The ‘Sommet’ Shiraz is uniquely sourced from a higher altitude ridgeline atop Mount Camel from a tiny, close-planted single block. Fruit from this spot ripens slower and is regularly harvested up to three weeks later than the lower lying shiraz vineyards. The more time spent ripening on the vine, the more depth and complexity the grapes gain. With 10% whole bunch fermentation and eight months maturation in oak barriques, the nose offers fresh coffee bean, lashings of ripe blueberry, a ‘gravelly’ edge and a deep red fruit core. Over the palate, enjoy a soft yet structured texture, loads of fleshy forest berries, subtle vanilla undertones and a specific and lively finish of lingering pink pepper berries. Every vintage is worth trying but the 2022 was awarded an impressive 96 points in the Halliday Wine Companion which points to conditions perfect for this wine to shine and will also reward careful cellaring for another fifteen years.
Pair with: Slow cooked lamb shoulder in red wine jus and a baked medley of root veges and lots of your favourite herbs.
RICHARD SAYS
Oakridge Willowlake Chardonnay 2024
Yarra Valley, Victoria RRP $48 ABV 13.5%
Chardonnay (homeland in Burgundy) seemingly can thrive wherever – the USA, and Australia too. The best examples are from cooler areas, where restrained yields, and careful oak selection can create wonderfully complex and seductive wines. In Australia, Margaret River, the Yarra Valley, and Tasmania stand out, with some other exceptions.
Oakridge crafts a range of Chardonnays from different sites, across widely different prices. Results in wine shows are outstanding with much credit to key long-time winemaker David Bicknell. This Chardonnay is “mid-priced” but delivers effortless pleasure.
It’s a pale youthful straw colour with hints of green; nectarine, lime and nutmeg spices follow – then intense stonefruit flavours, and energy. Flavours linger and issue the magic invitation “more please”. But despite its instant attractions, you could keep this for ten years (I did with another vintage). Don’t baulk at the price – it’s mighty quality.
Pair with: Roast chicken; pan-fried salmon, or pasta with a creamy sauce. Pork chops, chicken stir-fry. Lots of versatility, and a brie or hard cheese will work too. Just don’t chill it too much- let the fruit express itself!
