New Release – January 2018
Barry Weinman: 19th January 2018
Pared down from over 50 wines tasted this week, here are my pick of the new release wines. They all offer superb drinking now, however the Cape Mentelle in particular is very age-worthy.
Reviewed
Thorn Clarke – Riesling – Eden Trail – 2017 (17.8/20pts – $24). Refreshing and vibrant, with fresh citrus notes. The palate is long and supple, with fresh, cleansing lemony acid and decent length. Drinking a treat, this will be great on its own or with food. From Barossa.
Scotchmans Hill – Sauvignon Blanc – 2016 (17.5/20pts – $25). Aromatic, fresh, grassy, herbaceous and zesty, this is a good drink. Reminds me a little of white Bordeaux, with 10% of the fruit fermented in old oak and the extended lees contact adding texture.
Stella Bella – Sauvignon Blanc – 2017 (17.5/20pts). Quite herbaceous, with lantana, gooseberry and hints of passionfruit. The palate is fresh and lively, the acid playing nicely on the close. Good length to finish. A refreshing and worthwhile wine for the warmer afternoons.
Cherubino – Chardonnay – Laissez Faire – 2015 (18/20pts – $33). Attractive floral notes, with gun smoke and struck match aromas. This wine has been cleverly worked, with the smoky characters matched to quality fruit. Excellent length and depth, with a supple mouth-feel and quality oak. A powerful wine for sharing with friends over a meal. From the Porongorups.
Cape Mentelle – Cabernet Sauvignon – 2015 (18.7/20pts – $108). Ripe, elegant and fine with wonderful depth to the fruit. Aromas of mint, eucalypt and blackcurrant, with even a touch of cassis and cigar box. The palate is a textural treat, with the fine tannins and supple, high quality oak adding depth. Very long and fine, with grace and presence, this is irresistible now, but will age for 20+ years.