With Autumn settled in, it is time to get the jumpers out and drink your remaining Summer wines! These four vinos will hopefully bring some sunshine to your living room. We start with the most Champagne non Champagne Aussie Sparkling from Freycinet. Then we drink two lip smacking whites respectively from Spain and France. Then we finish with a juicy red, in memory of these summer nights…
Freycinet ‘Radenti’ R3 Sparkling NV
There are no doubts that Tasmania is producing some top quality bubbles. Some of them are feared by the French as a fierce competitor to their untouchable Champagne. Freycinet Radenti is one of them. The name R3 refers to the 3 Vintages (40% 2012, 44% 2013 16% 2014) combined to create this liquid gold. Overall blend proportions are 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir, made “methode traditionelle” with an extended maturation time prior to disgorging. On the palate it is generous, complex and truly beautiful; with burst of citrus (fresh and confit), honey, freshly made toast, buttery brioche and decadent “tarte tatin”. Phenomenal texture, creamy yet pure, it carries on to an impressive length.
Pardas ‘Rupestris’ 2017
Not quite sure what you feel like? How about something nice, unusual and different? This Catalonian white is a blend of Xarel.Lo, Malvasia de Sitges and Macabeu from very specific vineyards. The fermentation happens spontaneously on wild yeasts and lasts about 20 days in concrete tanks to promote the freshness of each variety. The wine displays a medley of citrus fruits, white orchard fruits and skins. Very refreshing, with a pithy acid line, somewhat fine tannin grip, and a very long briney finish.
Anne Gros Bourgogne Aligoté 2018
We may have professed our love for Aligoté many times in-store, so it was time to talk about it to the world (Internet). It is known that Burgundy is famous for its Chardonnay, yet you can find some other varieties that are equally fascinating (Aligoté, Beurrot and even Sauvignon Blanc..) and can make an absolute treat without breaking the bank. Bourgogne Aligoté is an appellation within Burgundy created in 1937, with wines made from Aligoté grapes, making good to excellent dry white wines, usually a bit greener and quite flinty. This example from cult producer Anne Gros, is an excellent wine, on the top tier of Aligoté examples. No kir with this one!
A.R.C ‘Summer Red’ 2020
We mentioned it before, drink your last summer wines! Time to let the juicy, fresh and bright quaffable reds move on to the Winter soldiers. This ultra fresh Mornington Peninsula sourced red wine, is the textbook example of chilled red to enjoy with any food at any occasion. Made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot with a splash of Pinot Noir; it still has some great depth to it; a lick of tannins and a plethora of primary notes of crunchy fruits. Reminds us of these damn delicious raspberry drops from Sovereign Hills…no sugar here though!
Crack the wax, pop the cork, and before you know, it will be gone.
Want any of these? Pop by the store or email glenn@decanters.com.au
Wine regards,
VKL
