Moving onto the second half of the box that arrived from www.laithwaites.co.nz. There are two whites – both fairly unusual varietals for these shores – and then five more reds across a range. Australia is well-represented. I’ve said before that i find the range from Laithwaites to be particularly strong on Aussie wines. But, as usual, I’m getting wines from just outside the mainstream for this tasting to be a bit of an adventure.
Steeple Block Semillon 2024
Australia does this varietal so well – which is good, as it’s practically unheard of here in NZ. This lively, juicy white comes from South Australia. Lemon, grapefruit, granny smith apple, greengage plum and a little baking spice. A pucker of crisp acidity guides the fruit, before a talc-like texture envelops the back of the palate. Dry, bright and youthful now, there’s everything in place to think it could age very well indeed if cellared. 91pts
Le Viti di Beatrice Gavi 2023
Although Piedmont in Italy gets plenty of attention for their reds, this white wine is crafted from Cortese grapes grown in the east of the region. A youthful, dry expression, with notes of apple, citrus, almond, hay and almond to the scent. A bit more body to the palate than the light bouquet suggests, there’s also a stony minerality that lasts into the polished, lengthy finish. A good alternative for customers who like a Pinot Gris. 89pts
Trentham Estate Pinot Noir 2022
From the Murray Darling region of New South Wales in Australia, and a winery that has celebrated its 30th Anniversary in recent years. Red cherry, plum, raspberry, liquorice, and a dusting of spice fills the bouquet. The plump fruit is silky, framed with french oak, adding a toast and more spiciness to the palate. A nibble of green, with herbs, nettle and peppercorn. Tannin is supple and confidently integrated. 90pts
Angove Bin 4255 Barossa Shiraz 2020
If there was a referendum for Barossa’s most popular grape variety, Shiraz would probably win. You get a deep, dark colour, with equally bold and dark flavours. Boysenberry, mocha, doris plum, black pepper, cloves and violets in the perfume and spread through the palate. Sleek, smooth and rich. Well-balanced acidity, oak and tannin make this a great option for these Autumn evenings as Summer tries to hang on. 89pts
The Black Stump Durif-Shiraz 2024
Made by winemaking legend John Casella from South Eastern Australia fruit. Plum, bramble, mint, vanilla, pomegranate, star anise, and even some salami notes show in the bouquet. The palate has some signature Durif tannins, with savoury and black pepper/spice elements jostling for attention. At 14.5% alcohol by volume, this has weight and body, but with a smooth plushness that’s looking for some red meat to partner with for dinner. 90pts
Tenuta Fenice Nero D’Avola 2023
A red wine from Sicily – winemaker Dino Taschetta has resurrected his grandfather’s old vineyard that was abandoned after the ‘60s earthquake. A deep burgundy colour with flashes of magenta at the edges. A perfume that starts with an intro of blackberry, plum and cherry flavours, then a chorus of mocha, pepper and liquorice, finishing with a savoury earthiness. Composed and densely packed through the palate. Some crisp acidity, a fine line of tannin and a smoky frame of oak form the spine, showcasing the plush fruit. Finishes dry, spicy and long. 93pts
The Black Pig Reserve McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
Boasting the classic aromas that you want to find from a South Australian Cabernet – blackcurrant, cherry, tobacco, menthol, plum and liquorice. Add in the signature chocolate note of McLaren Vale, and this wine is a classic example. Chewy, bold tannins hold and bolster the fruit, and the acidity gives an energetic bounce through the palate. Shape, structure and juicy fruit – it’s all there. 91pts
