Singlefile in Focus: April 2023 New Releases
Barry Weinman: 23rd April 2023
A highlight of recent tastings was to compare and contrast cabernets from the Riversdale vineyard in Frankland. The vineyard is under the control of Larry Cherubino and also provides fruit to the likes of Singlefile.
In 2019, both producer’s top wines were made with fruit from this vineyard, but decisions in the vineyard and winery have resulted in markedly different wines. Singlefile’s Philip Adrian (95pts – $100) comes in at 14.2% alc and is fragrant and pure, whilst Cherubino’s Budsworth ($180, 13.5% alc) is much tauter and more structured, the fruit shy and restrained. Both wines need extended ageing to show their best.
What was most exciting for me, however, was the quality and drinkability of some of the other new release wines that Singlefile have just released from the 2022 vintage.
Be it the spectacular 2022 Pamela Riesling, the rich and generous Family Reserve Chardonnay, or the lip-smackingly delicious Malbec, or the fragrant, supple Porongurup Pinot, all the wines are brilliant drinking straight out of the bottle.
Clearly, this is a vintage to watch in the Great Southern and the value offered by Singlefile is irresistible. Get some whilst you can!
Reviewed
Singlefile – The Pamela – Riesling – 2022. Fragrant and oh so fine, this is such a pretty wine, where the floral/perfumed/talc fruit is the main focus of the show. On the palate, gentle citrus notes build, but it is the minerality and fine fruit that carries the palate, leading to a finish that is bone dry. Seamless and irresistible, this is one of the best drinking young rieslings that I can recall. And sure to age well too. 11.4%alc, 96pts – $45.
From the Misery Hill vineyard in the Porongorups. Only 235 dozen were produced.
Singlefile – Family Reserve – Chardonnay – 2022. This is an impactful wine that has a real wow factor. Here, the fully ripe grapes were beautifully handled in the winery to ensure that the fruit remains the focus, supported by high quality winemaking and oak (1/3 new). Aromas and flavours firmly in the stonefruit and citrus categories, with hints of honey. A complex, powerful wine with great length of flavours. This could take short-term ageing, but personally, I would drink this in its youth given that it already offers so much. 13.3% alc, 95pts – $60.
Singlefile – Pinot Noir – 2022. This has vibrant, cherry/berry fruit typical of pinot which is underpinned by savoury, earthy, almost sappy notes that greatly add to the depth and complexity of the fruit. The fruit carries through on the palate, with the acid and tannins acting as a counterpoint, adding freshness and texture. The supple Burgundian oak (28% new) adds to the appeal. Delicious now, or in 5 years and excellent value. Fruit comes from the Misery Hill vineyard. 94pts – $38.
Singlefile – Clement V – 2021. This is oh so attractive, with ripe berry fruit front and centre, supported by texturing tannins and oak. There is mulberry, plum and cherry, with hints of liquorice and plenty of Asian spices. This is a cooler climate style, and very good indeed. It offers great drinking now and would be excellent with food, if that is your preference. From the Riversdale vineyard, a blend of mataro, shiraz and grenache. 14.2% alc, 93pts – $37.
Singlefile – Malbec – 2022. From a value for money perspective and for pure drinkability, this was the stand-out of the tasting. This is really perfumed with intense, pure berry fruit. Blackcurrant, mint and subtly spiced fruit is framed by very fine tannins and oak (25% new). The finish is silky and long, with excellent balance. Brilliant now, or any time over the next 10 years. A bargain. 14.4% alcohol, 95pts – $30. (Sold out at the winery, but Old Bridge Cellars had stock at the time of writing)