A perennial bargain. More expansively fruited this year due to vintage conditions but every bit as good as its predecessor. The J&J D’Aloisio vineyard grapes (which have previously made the cut for the flagship 864 label) all made their way into the wine, accounting for 15% of the final blend. That helps explain the quality and given that it’s generally the ripest of the sites mined by Oakridge, it no doubt plays a role in the generosity as well.
White peach, green apples, almonds and grapefruit pith are the main players but it does ease towards a slightly more tropically fruited visage on the mid-palate. Hints of creamed rice then it’s onto sustained breaded, mineral and slightly smoky notes as a coda. Gentle phenolic crunch adds further interest. 91
Region: Yarra Valley
Alcohol: 12.7%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $22
Tasted: January 2014