Three wines that are anything but boring
Who wants to be seen taking a bottle of Chateau Predictable to a party? There are no brownie points in that these days. Whether it's a dinner party or BYO restaurant you're going to, you want a wine that will make people look twice.
Australian chenin blanc? Who would have thought anywhere outside France's hallowed Loire Valley could produce a wine of particular interest?
Lambrusco: has there ever been a lambrusco that you'd cross the road for? Think again.
And gruner veltliner? Apart from being useful material for a spelling competition, what else is notable about it? Deliciousness, that's what.
L.A.S. Vino CBDB Chenin Blanc 2018, Margaret River, $55
Score 95
This is one of the best Australian chenin blancs I've tasted. It has a slightly cloudy unfiltered appearance but the bouquet of lemon, herbs and nutty barrel touches is superb. Very good intensity, crisp and lively on the tongue, mouth-filling and loaded with energy. Superior concentration and length. Diam cork; 14 per cent alcohol.
Ageing? Drink now to five years.
Stockists include Le Pont Wine Store, Milsons Point (NSW); asvino.com
Josef & Philipp Brundlmayer Kaiserstiege Gruner Veltliner 2016, Kremstal, Austria, $32-$33
Score 95
This has a mid-yellow colour and aromas of poached peaches and nectarines, with hints of fig and pineapple. Some spicy notes. It's rich and full, rounded and generous, finishing with lots of honey and a little alcohol warmth, and a long carry. An impressive wine. Screw-cap; 13.5 per cent alcohol.
Ageing? Drink now to five years.
Stockists include: Rathdowne Cellars, Carlton North (Vic); Cittavino, Newtown (NSW).
Chalmers Lambrusco 2018, Heathcote, $45
Score 90
Made with the traditional method, with nine months on lees. Deep red with a tint of purple, the bouquet evokes ripe plum, mulberry and dried-herbs. A bold, fruit-driven sparkling red with a low sweetness level and a round, supple, full-ish palate. Pillowy texture. Not complex, but good. Crown cap; 11 per cent alcohol.
Ageing? Drink now to five years.
Stockists include Annandale Cellars (NSW); Prince Wine Store (Vic).
