Topper’s Mountain are turning out some classy wines and piquing my interest in the New England wine region which is situated in northern New South Wales, on the border of Queensland. This isn’t the best wine I’ve tasted from them but it still has quite a bit going for it.
A whiff of game and earth accompanies varietal cherry/berry flavours, chinotto and sarsaparilla. Medium bodied, spicy and savoury in the mouth with the acidity riding too high within the overall mix – food and/or time may help. Black olive tapenade and slightly bitter leafy characters. Plenty of chubby Tempranillo tannin to wrap things up. Lacks real length but I admire the stylings and think it’s a pretty darn tasty wine all up. 89 Good
Region: New England
Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $32
Tasted: January 2013
I got to try this on Friday night while staying in Glen Innes. Pretty much concur with your note Jeremy, I was surprised by the ripe sarsparilla elements along with the usual varietal bits. A region to watch perhaps.
I think you’re spot on Andrew. It’s a region I hope to visit as soon as possible. Topper’s Mountain alone have opened my eyes to the possibilities of New England.