Tag Archives: Wine Reviews

2013 Mayer Bloody Hill Pinot Noir

Another offering from Timo Mayer, also known as Lollipop Man, alias the Long-Haired Sucker. Little in the way of oak static. Some reduction which blows off. Intense raspberry, sarsaparilla, spiced rhubarb and maraschino cherry. Mouth tingling acid, smudgy tannin. Not … Continue reading

Posted in Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley | Tagged | 7 Comments

2013 Mayer Close Planted Pinot Noir

“P.Funk, uncut funk, the bomb”-Parliament The funk is not doobified here. There is no David Bowie to be seen…although someone did spot Old Gregg in the lake nearby. Wilted roses, lilacs and smoke. Brown leaves and rocks. 50% whole bunches … Continue reading

Posted in Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley | Tagged | 9 Comments

2012 Wirra Wirra Church Block

Wirra Wirra’s Church Block has turned forty years old. We’re now the same age. Fitting considering I grew up with the wine – after I was of a legal drinking age of course. 49% Cabernet, 35% Shiraz, 16% Merlot. That’s … Continue reading

Posted in Cabernet et al, McLaren Vale, Merlot et al | Tagged | Comments Off

2012 La Vendetta Toscana Sangiovese IGT

A Sangiovese with a riper, fuller fruit profile that some might even refer to as somewhat New World. Includes 8% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon. Imported by Fourth Wave Wine. Cherries, charcoal, darker berry fruits, dried herbs and raspy tannin. … Continue reading

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2012 Les Courtilles Cotes Du Rhone Villages Plan de Dieu

Another more than handy import from Fourth Wave Wines. Half Grenache, half Syrah. Sweet raspberry over plums, tar, herbs and licorice. Spicy. Avoids any overt jaminess and is far from a heavy wine. Good interplay between sweet and savoury characters, … Continue reading

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2013 Dog Point Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

Whenever I taste a quality Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc I wonder why I don’t drink them more often. Of course there’s a lot of swill out there but that applies to any variety and any region. Crisp acidity rather than sharp. … Continue reading

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2010 Blue Poles Allouran

Australia’s best Merlot Cabernet Franc blend has never looked better. It’s 70%/30% for those interested in the numbers. If you aren’t already all over this wine then you should be. More elegant and vibrant than previous releases; although it’s never … Continue reading

Posted in Cabernet Franc et al, Margaret River, Merlot et al | Tagged | 13 Comments

2009 Meerea Park Alexander Munro Shiraz

The Alexander Munro is now released as a five year-old and a ten year-old wine. A pretty smart idea for those who don’t have a cellar or wine fridge…or for those who just want to tuck in straight away. Blackberry over … Continue reading

Posted in Hunter Valley, Shiraz, Syrah | Tagged | Comments Off

2011 Toolangi Yarra Valley Chardonnay

Forward and developed for a 2011 Yarra Valley Chardonnay. Fruit comes from the warmer Dixons Creek area on the Valley floor. Peaches in syrup, apricot nectar, grilled nuts, unripe banana and wood spice. Slippery more than buttery in the mouth. Not much … Continue reading

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2013 Cradle of Hills GiGi Grenache Rosé

It ain’t pale. Ruby red in the glass with a great deal of presence. There’s 10% Mourvèdre in the mix, complementing the Grenache. Rather floral with raspberries, red apples and peppery spice joined by an attractive earthiness. It has body and … Continue reading

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