Club Sunset

Chapel Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale 2007

2010-02-22T19:24:00.009+08:00

Price: $26.20 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 90
Value: ***

Dense, tarry, chocolately nose with some muddy tones as well. A milkiness about it that is quite appealing. The nose opened up considerably with some rigorous swishing in the glass. Cabernet characters more evident on the blockbuster palate - a slight leafiness together with blackcurrant flavours hidden behind a wall of fine-grained, dusty, caressing tannins. Terrific mid-palate with an explosion of ripe, opulent fruit. A chocolately goodness with very mouthful. This wine is built for the long, long haul.

Having said that, after some time in the glass and coming back to the wine a few times, it seemed to give less and less pleasure. The finish was becoming short and the tannins just seemed to get in the way of everything else. Will leave it overnight and revisit again.

Moorooduc Estate McIntyre Vineyard Chardonnay, Mornington Peninsula 2007

2010-02-21T19:31:00.007+08:00

Price: $35 from Cellar Door
Closure: Screwcap; 13.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 93+
Value: *****

Lovely nose, some nutty and deftly managed buttery character. Palate is full with some nice minerality especially on the finish. Oak treatment is restrained and the focused palate sings of melon and peach/nectarine flavours. Long, lingering finish and natural, balanced acidity bring up the rear of the delectable, elegant wine. Not at all tiresome to drink even after it has warmed up to room temperature. One of the best Chardys I've had in a long while.

Richard Hamilton Hut Block Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale 2008

2010-02-20T18:57:00.004+08:00

Price: $15 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: *****

Full-throttle nose, nice regional chocolate and mocha aromas. Cabernet characteristics somewhat taking a backseat. This is not a "classic" Cabernet nose in that sense but still rather likeable. Densely flavoured on the full bodied palate, a ton of blackcurrant fruit, rather sweet and inviting with some soft tannins on the long finish. Outstanding value, nothing to dislike about this wine.

Moorooduc Estate Garden Vineyard Pinot Noir, Mornington Peninsula 2007

2010-02-20T18:52:00.003+08:00

Price: AUD35 from Cellar Door
Closure: Screwcap; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 88
Value: ***

My last wine at 265 Exhibition Street. I sit here in a sparkling clean apartment with the twinkling city lights in front of me, Ray Lamontagne crooning beside me and I think back on the many wines I've had in this apartment, shared with lovely company amidst unforgettable conversations. Nostalgia hangs heavy in the air as I contemplate how great these 2 years have been, forging new friendships and cementing old ones. The question of what I'll miss most in Melbourne is an easy one - this apartment and all the memories contained within.

This is a Pinot Noir with quite a strong twist of Cabernet on the nose - some leafy, tree-bark like aromas. Rather woody with the red fruits hiding in the background. Smells distinctly like a Margaret River Cabernet Merlot, a fabulous nose. Rather silky on the palate with a savoury sour tinge on the back palate. Quite complex in flavours, there's a lot going on in there. A bit of medicinal nuances and dusty tannins on the finish as well. Seems to be rather developed already making for an interesting drink.

Craiglee Shiraz, Sunbury 2005

2010-02-15T17:39:00.005+08:00

Price: about $50 from Cellar Door
Closure: Diam; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 96+
Value: *****

A multi-faceted and layered wine with a highly aromatic nose of red and black fruits, licorice and peppery spices. There is a cherry-like, plummy quality about it. Silky smooth on the palate, such is the refinement of this wine that the mouthfeel rivals that of a Pinot Noir. A distinguished, complex and immaculately balanced wine with smooth tannins, gorgeous peppery red fruit and acidity that isn't a least contrived. Velvety and seductive, this wine is almost dangerously delicious. Dare I say this could be Victoria's best cool climate Shiraz?

Tawny Taste-Off

2010-02-12T19:43:00.008+08:00

Chateau Reynella 16 Year Old Tawny

Price: $9 from Dan Murphy's (375ml)
Closure: Cork; 19.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 89
Value: *****

Isn't great that you can open a bottle of Tawny and sip it slowly over an extended period of time and it still more or less remains the same? This bargain of a wine has the usual nutty, oxidised complexities on the nose. Reminds me rather much of a packet Soy Bean drink called Vitasoy! The palate is lusciously sweet and the same "rice" taste I get on many Tawnys. Some clean acidity balances the sweetness on the finish.

De Bortoli Old Boys 21 Year Old Tawny

Price: $38 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Cork; 19.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 94
Value: ****

Deeper and darker in appearance compared to the Reynella. Translates well into the nose - stronger, bolder aromas. Smells fruitier and sweeter as well. The palate is a dead giveaway on the sheer class of this wine. More complex rancio flavours, a tighter and precise palate which gives way to a finish that is starkly lengthier than the Reynella. Tasted side-by-side, there is just no comparison. A wonderful Tawny and worth every cent.

Paringa Estate "Estate" Pinot Noir, Mornington Peninsular 2006

2010-02-11T19:29:00.007+08:00

Price: about $60 from Cellar Door
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 95+
Value: **

Rim of the wine showing some browning. Complex Pinot nose - ripe plums and dark cherry together with mushroomy goodness. Gorgeous oak treatment thrown in for good measure - the deftly handled oak adds a whole new dimension. Perfumed and delectable, just a Pinot bouquet should be. Dense dark flavours spice, sweet-sour dark cherries on the palate but still retaining a lovely silken texture. Quite a powerful and concentrated Pinot but in very good harmony; bright acidity and smooth tannins prolong the refined finish that sails on. A great Pinot thoroughly enjoyed on a rainy Melbourne night.

Clyde Park Chardonnay, Geelong 2007

2010-02-09T17:45:00.007+08:00

Price: about $35 from Cellar Door
Closure: Screwcap; 13.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 86
Value: **

Full-throttle nose, lots of buttery, melon-like aromas. Dense and oily on the palate with nice fruit sweetness but with a bit of phenolic bitterness. Some peach flavours thrown in together on the full, lush palate. Alcoholic heat a tad noticeable. Needs a bit more focus. Finish is somewhat lacking as well.

Heathcote Winery Mail Coach Shiraz, Heathcote 2007

2010-02-04T19:14:00.006+08:00

Price: about $25 from King & Godfree
Closure: Screwcap; 14.7% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 87
Value: **

Open nose, slightly milky and creamy with red and purple fruits. Proclaims its Shiraz characteristics with aplomb with bright fruit and pepper aromas. Dense on the palate with somewhat harsh tannins and acidity. Acidity seems a bit contrived and artificial. Good fruit concentration and length but just doesn't seem like very good value for money at $25. Everything about this wine is great except for the acidity, is my palate acting up tonight?

Port Phillip Estate Pinot Noir, Mornington Peninsula 2008

2010-02-01T20:49:00.006+08:00

Price: $30.90 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Diam; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 93+
Value: *****

An utterly explosive nose. Red cherry, ripe strawberry. Fragrant and very primary. Sweet fruity nose with balanced oak taking a supporting role. Palate is smooth and refined. Lots of pure focused and intense fruit, great texture and structure. Fine acidity running through the entire length of the palate. Everything in good balance, nothing jutting out. Seductive finish. Nose opens up even more with aeration. Needs more time to gain complexity but still dangerously delicious now.

Best's Bin 0 Shiraz, Great Western 2004

2010-01-30T20:40:00.006+08:00

Price: $50 from Cellar Door
Closure: Cork; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 91
Value: NR

This wine had quite a bit of ullage - the level of wine was almost to the shoulder of the bottle. I figured that I better drink this up sooner rather than later. Wine closure had completely failed with dried wine encrusting the top of the cork.

Wonderful nose with some roasted coffee aromas - a simply gorgeous complex array of smells. However, the age of the wine was apparent on the nose and it somehow smelt distinctly Old World. The palate was fresh and not too tired though the fruit had faded a bit to reveal some aged complexity. Good fruit flavours amidst some obvious acidity. Elegant mouthfeel, and a medium bodied wine driven more by tannin and brisk acid than upfront fruit. I think this wine has been aged prematurely because of the failure of the cork. However, it had not deteriorated to the point of becoming vinegar. The same probably can't be said if I had opened the bottle one year later.

Primo Estate Il briccone Shiraz Sangiovese, McLaren Vale 2008

2010-01-29T17:20:00.006+08:00

Price: $19 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 93
Value: *****

Good Shiraz nose with some pepper and spices and ripe plums. Milk tea aromas somewhat obvious on the nose. An arresting and complex nose I must say. Surprisingly the Sangiovese component, though only 15%, does assert its influence on the nose. The palate is medium to light bodied with lots of fruit concentration, lovely sweet red and black fruits, some milkiness and perfect balance on the palate. This is a spectacular wine.

Kaesler Old Vine Shiraz, Barossa Valley 2007

2010-01-26T19:21:00.006+08:00

Price: $60 from Cellar Door
Closure: Screwcap; 15.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 95
Value: *****

What an amazing nose that is just choked full of ripe plums, black fruits and lovely fragrant oak. This is the kind of wine that I can spend the entire night sniffing and not taking a single sip. The palate holds its 15.5% alcohol wine really well with tons of concentrated berry flavours, balanced tannins and acidity. Dances around on your palate; has a long, long finish blessed with caressing tannins.

Gemtree Tatty Road Cabernet Sauvignon Petit Verdot Cabernet Franc Merlot, McLaren Vale 2007

2010-01-26T17:45:00.006+08:00

Price: $20 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 80
Value: NR

An interesting Bordeaux blend from the McLaren Vale. Nose seemed quite enjoyable with good, dark fruit flavours; Cabernet character present but not too obvious. Palate however was quite a disappointment; harsh, unnatural acidity was just too pronounced. Causing the wine to be out-of-balance. Most if it ended up deglazing the pan to make a sauce for the steak.

Frogmore Creek FGR Riesling, Tasmania 2009

2010-01-26T16:46:00.005+08:00

Price: about $25 from Bottle shop in Hobart
Closure: Screwcap; 9.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 95+
Value: *****

Nice Riesling notes on the nose but not too obvious or prominent. Flowery, talcum powder aromas. Sharp acidity the highlight of the light bodied palate, lots of fruit concentration, slight sweet but with tons of cleansing and bright acidity on the palate to balance the sweetness. Typical lime and lemon sorbert flavours bring up the rear of this very enjoyable and pleasing wine. An almost effervescent quality of the the wine. They really should be making more Riesling of this style in Australia

Shaw + Smith Sauvignon Blanc, Adelaide Hills 2009

2010-01-26T14:46:00.007+08:00

Price: about $20 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 13.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 93
Value: *****

Great nose on this Sauvignon Blanc. Greater complexity on the palate too, with bright fruit flavours and a zesty finish. Lots of lime and lemon flavours, almost reminiscent of a Riesling. More acidity and somewhat more restrained fruit compared to the Oyster Bay. A different and more interesting expression of Sauvignon Blanc compared to Marlborough.

Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough 2009

2010-01-26T14:21:00.005+08:00

Price: about $20 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 13.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 88
Value: ***

Typical Marlborough aromas - somme grassiness together with good cucumber and passionfruit flavour. Palate a pleaser, with straight forward fruit flavours, great concentration and nice crisp acidity on the medium lengthened finish. Nothing to fault about the wine but nothing to jump up about either.

Dominque Portet Fontaine Cabernet Shiraz, Yarra Valley Heathcote 2007

2010-01-25T18:10:00.010+08:00

Price: $18 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 13.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 86
Value: **

A hint of muddiness on the nose, similar to certain kinds of shellfish; not unpleasant though. Pretty light on the palate and more of that muddy, sea-like flavours on the palate. Somewhat thin in fruit concentration. The dual personality of the Cabernet and Shiraz showing itself but somehow it doesn't seem like a very good marriage for this wine. Uncomplex and somewhat lacking in personality. French influences rather apparent. Reminds me of the many bottles of Grand Bateau I have back home.

Brokenwood Cabernet Merlot, McLaren Vale Alpine Valley Beechworth 2005

2010-01-23T19:29:00.009+08:00

Price: $22.80 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: *****

A wine from Brokenwood, which really is the worst type of wood to get.

Quite obvious fading in colour around the rim of the wine. Dark fruits on the nose, quite a bit of dark chocolately oak most probably from the McLaren Vale component of the wine. Some vanilla nuances which are pleasantly balanced. Palate initially came across as lean especially on the mid-palate. Think the Merlot component could be increased. Rather strong tannins apparent on the finish. Somehow with some aeration, the whole wine fleshed out and was in much better balance. After some time, it became a truly enjoyable wine, the fruit was in better prominence balancing all the other aspects of the wine.

Spinifex Espirit, Barossa Valley 2006

2010-01-20T20:20:00.009+08:00

Price: $34 from Godfrey's and Sons
Closure: Diam; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 95+
Value: *****

I'm on a mission (and have more or less succeeded) to try all of Peter Schell's wines.

Dark, toasty nose with slight meaty nuances. Sweet Grenache fruit coming up strong but balanced nicely by the savoury, dusty elements of the other component grapes. Lovely mouthfeel and an explosive mid-palate that is bursting with sun-baked black summer fruits. Not the least bit confectionary, all parts in great harmony. Some minerals and graphite. Acidity is natural and unobtrusive, same goes for the smooth tannins which bring up the rear. A wonderful wine from a spectacular producer. I'm going to make myself a thick Porterhouse steak to go with this.

Henschke Tappa Pass Shiraz, Barossa Valley 2006

2010-01-19T18:54:00.008+08:00

Price: $50 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Vinolok; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 95
Value: *****

Deeply fragrant, dark black fruits, rather complex and refined. Aromas which tend highly towards the cooler climate style. Palate is medium bodied, supremely balanced, refined with a good dose of cream, vanilla and charred notes. Lovely precise and focused with a long finish blessed with great acidity. Available only at cellar door, I only wish that I had purchased more bottles.

Tahbilk Cabernet Sauvignon, Nagambie Lakes 2006

2010-01-18T20:07:00.007+08:00

Price: $16 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 93
Value: *****

Going with the "Put Victoria on your table" theme, this is a wine from Victoria's oldest family owned winery in the Nagambie Lakes region. Spent 18 months maturing in French oak.

Intensely varietal on the nose with spades of Cabernet fruit and a good measure of lovely perfectly integrated oak. Medium bodied and flirty on the palate with good dark red fruits fruit concentration, lively acidity, wonderful line and length. Cooler climate characteristics shine. A tightly wound palate for its age with somewhat firm tannins; still tasting extremely youthful. Classy and superb value.

Flynn's MC Shiraz, Heathcote 2007

2010-01-16T19:31:00.008+08:00

Price: $34 from Cellar Door
Closure: Screwcap; 14.2% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: *****

Dark, fragrant and juicy fruits, black olives; beautifully handled oak treatment. Palate is surprisingly structured and elegant almost with lovely smooth mouthfeel and tons of spices and ground black pepper. Cooler climate Shiraz characteristics abound. Nice dusty, furry tannins round up the finish together with natural tasting acidity. Yummy.

Carlei Estate & Carlei Green Vineyards Green Vineyards Shiraz, Heathcote 2005

2010-01-14T18:30:00.008+08:00

Price: $25 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Diam; 14.9% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: *****

Following my recent visit to the Heathcote wine region, I've been curious and eager to try more wines (especially Shiraz) from there.

Slightly aged hue in appearance. What a nose! Sweet and slightly savoury at the same time. Baked pastries, lovely red-purple fruits, slightly earthy with some coconut shavings and mintiness and so damn fragrant. The sweet fruit aromas are simply heaven. Full bodied palate with quite a generous helping of tangy acidity. Good balance between the fruit and tannin. Great integration, outstanding concentration and a mouth-watering finish all make for a wonderful wine.

Freycinet Louis Pinot Noir, Tasmania 2006

2010-01-12T19:16:00.008+08:00

Price: $26 from Cellar door
Closure: Screwcap; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 86
Value: **

Quite a sharp, almost pungent nose of preserved plums. You can almost smell the saltiness in this. Nose is a dead-ringer for preserved, pickled mango. Sharp, tangy acidity on the palate with good fruit concentration but somehow the mouthfeel is a bit harsh and disjointed. Not the harmonious, silky feel I was hoping for. Tannins come in a bit strong and taste a bit woody. Lovely, sweet and good Pinot fruit though. I waited a while for the wine to open up before reaching my verdict but still it did not soften. Finished a bit harsh with some alcoholic heat.

McIvor Estate Sangiovese, Heathcote 2007

2010-01-10T18:46:00.007+08:00

Price: $25 from Cellar door
Closure: Screwcap; 13.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 89
Value: ****

Nose is slightly reticent with some hints of woodiness. Savoury, medium bodied palate with typical sour cherries; some raspberries as well. Palate is focused with a light elegant feel about it, quite concentrated flavours of strawberry and cherries. Balances well with the rather drying and dusty tannins. Great flavours and wonderful tight structure. This will hold up well in the cellar or with foods. Opened up considerably after some time in the glass.

Lanson Black Label, Champagne AC NV

2009-12-31T18:34:00.008+08:00

Price: $45.50 from Woolworth's Liquor Sale
Closure: Cork; 12.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 91
Value: ***

A slightly more subdued nose, still rather flowery and fragrant. On the palate, concentration is obvious and outstanding but fruit sweetness is less than that of the Arras. Acidity is also fiercer and more cutting - almost a bit too overpowering and harsh for me. Finish is long and extremely crisp. A classic Old World vs New World contrast between the wines.

Quattro Mano La Reto Tempranillo, Barossa Valley 2006

2009-12-28T18:01:00.008+08:00

Price: $30 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Diam; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 94+
Value: *****

My first time trying a Tempranillo from the Barossa (in a very stylish bottle I must add) and I was curious to see how this variety is expressed in the Barossa. Tasted on day after opening:

Still very youthful in appearance given its age - still dominated with deep purple hues. Nose is redolent with red and black fruits, slightly tarry with some minerality. A tad more savoury and darker than the Cigale Shiraz I tasted last night. There isn't that classic sunshine-in-a-bottle aromas of the Barossa. Palate is full bodied with great fruit concentration, sweetness in good check. Some spicy complexity showing on the finish which is focused and prolonged by smooth, refined tannins. Lovely oak treatment, lingering finish with a hint of chocolate milkiness. Tasty indeed.

Yering Station Shiraz Viognier. Yarra Valley 2006

2009-12-27T18:29:00.009+08:00

Price: $20 from Dan Murphy's, courtesy of Paul
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 89+
Value: *****

Good lifted aromas from the Viognier quite obvious. Some prominent oak, woody scents initially which then dissipated with some swirling. Palate is quite sweet, almost too sweet - perhaps the Viognier was overdone? Palate is full bodied with quite a bit of spicy, peppery scents. I think the sweetness of the palate is this wine's only shortcoming. Though I must say that the fruit concentration and flavour of this wine is really second to none at this price range.

Cigale Shiraz, Barossa Valley 2007

2009-12-27T18:07:00.008+08:00

Price: $23 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.6% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 91
Value: *****

Big, ripe juicy aromas, classic Barossa. A bit of burnt fruit; lots of sunshine and dustiness on the palate. Concentrated flavours on the palate - great ripe, chewy tannins which prolong the finish. In typical Spinifex style, flavour with finesse. A great wine of outstanding value.

Curly Flat Pinot Noir, Macedon Ranges 2005

2009-12-19T17:53:00.008+08:00

Price: $50 from Cellar Door
Closure: Screwcap; 13.8% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 93
Value: ****

Hints of brick-like developed hues. Lovely, complex nose of dark ripe fruits and cinnamon, slightly meaty too. Smooth and silky on the palate, nice focused flavours and some aged complexity. Good intensity and quite a bit of fruit sweetness, brooding almost, lots of spices including pepper on the lengthy finish blessed with ripe, fine tannins. Holds up well over time - this wine was double decanted and then tasted the night after opening.

Yalumba The Scribbler Cabernet Shiraz, Barossa Valley 2008

2009-12-15T17:31:00.006+08:00

Price: $17 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 84
Value: *****

An opulent, hard-hitting nose choked full of black olives, dark oak. Intensely fragrant and open aromas. A touch of spices and lavender. Thick and almost syrupy on the palate with a dense core of sweet black fruits - blackcurrants and blackberries supported by young, firm tannins which gives way to a rather lengthy finish. Striking thing about this wine is the almost obscene level of fruit sweetness, bordering on being jammy.

Henschke Keyneton Estate Euphonium, Barossa Valley 2006

2009-12-10T19:00:00.007+08:00

Price: $32.50 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: *****

Very fragrant on the nose, Shiraz shining through over the other varietals. Oak comes across a bit heavy though. Elegant and slightly savoury on the tight, focused palate. Ends off with a hint of mint and quite a bit of woody notes probably from the Cabernet. Smooth and balanced and blessed with a lengthy finish. The nose really opened up with some decanting, really transformed. Started to deteriorate after about 2 hours which seemed to indicate that this wine can't really be cellared for the very long term

Tasted again on 9 January 2010
E-Hern:
Score: 94
Value: *****

56% shiraz, 27% cabernet sauvignon 9% cabernet franc and 8% merlot grown in the
Barossa (Eden Valley and Barossa Valley). Matured in 30% new 70% seasoned French and American oak hogheads for 18 months prior to blending and bottling.

What a gorgeous, lifted, seductive, aromatic nose! Nice vanilla sweetness from the American oak; in good balance. Flowery scents together with dark plum, blackcurrant and woodiness. The elegant and structured palate has poise and finesse, wonderful fruit concentration dancing on the palate. Lovely acidity and tannin integration. Layered complexity on the finish.

Taltarni Shiraz, Pyrenees 2005

2009-09-12T19:57:00.005+08:00

Price: about $30 from Woolworth's Liquor
Closure: Cork; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 93
Value: *****

When I opened this wine and saw the perfectly stained cork, I heaved a sigh of relief after being disappointed recently by failed corks. One whiff confirmed the good news. The nose is fresh and relatively primary for the wine's age. It's redolent of ripe, red fruits mixed deftly with balanced oak aromas. The structured, medium-bodied palate is awash with savoury fruit, dusty tannins and just a hint of aged, earthy notes. The mid-palate has a good dose of fragrant purple/red fruits. Good balance and a lengthy finish that's almost completely dry. This wine can comfortably sit in the cellar for about 4-6 more years. In fact, as I'm writing this, I'm going to go decant this - I reckon it will blossom even further.

Brave Goose Shiraz, Goulburn Valley 2005

2009-07-19T21:31:00.004+08:00

Price: $20 from Federation Square Wine Showcase
Closure: Screwcap; 14.7% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: *****

Still very youthful in colour and flavour for its age. Nice dusty oak on the nose that seems almost Cabernet-like. Elegant and very seductive aromas. Palate is dense but not over-the-top. Lovely cedary oak, dark black fruits, spice and licorice. Acidity is very natural and balanced well with the ripe, smooth tannins, providing a lingering finish. Wonderfully structured and refined - holds its alcohol very well.

Brave Goose Cabernet Merlot, Goulburn Valley 2005

2009-07-07T19:14:00.006+08:00

Price: $28 from Federation Square Wine Tasting
Closure: Screwcap; 14.7% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 91
Value: *****

A classic Cabernet nose filled with pencil shavings, lead mixed beautifully with blackcurrant fruit. There is a herb-like and slight bark-like quality about this that is simply perfect. Palate is generous and carries it's 14.7% alcohol very well indeed. Lovely fruit concentration, natural acidity and a youthfulness that hides its 5 year age (in no small part due to the closure). Tannins are still rather firm on the finish but complexity is apparent already. A fine wine indeed.

Les Vins de Vienne (Cuilleron Gaillard Villard) Les Cranilles, Cote du Rhone AC 2005

2008-11-02T19:11:00.005+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD19.99 from Dan Murphy
Closure: Cork; 13.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 88
Value: *****

One of the rare occasions I get to try an Old World wine here in Melbourne - picked this one up together with E. Guigal's Cote du Rhone at Dan's to have a little cheap Rhone taste-off.

Lovely open, cool climate white peppery Grenache/Shiraz aromas waft up to greet you. Nicely perfumed, very slightly flowery, perfectly balanced fruit and oak. I love the lower levels of alcohol that just give this wine freshness and vibrancy. Lovely powdery tannins which coat the mouth completely on the finish, not obtrusive but makes the smokey toasted finish all the more enjoyable. Slightly savoury red and black fruit complement the palate which is more about tactile balance than full on fruit flavours.

Deen De Bortoli Vat 8 Shiraz, Australia 2006

2008-10-22T17:19:00.004+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD9.90 from Dan Murphy
Closure: Screwcap; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 83
Value: ***

I'm pan frying a thick-cut rump steak tonight and having this cheap quaffing wine for around $15 - I'm going to miss nights like this back home in Singapore.

Good red fruit aromas unadorned by oak; nice peppery scents, fresh and inviting. Palate is light to medium bodied without great fruit concentration but simple and accessible. Finishes a tad thin and short though acid and soft smooth tannins are in fair balance. Good aromas and flavours; not a hint of harshness. I'm curious to see if there can be better quality wines to be had for under a tenner.

Whitebox Shiraz, Heathcote 2005

2008-10-14T20:30:00.006+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD16 from Dan Murphy
Closure: Screwcap; 14.8% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 88
Value: ***

I'm really into Heathcote wines now after going to the Heathcote Food & Wine Festival and having a blast there. Big, ripe and juicy on the nose yet rather perfumed and the same time. It's almost like I'm smelling some sort of pot pourri. Gorgeous violet blue fruits that cut straight into the palate. Good acidity and fruit sweetness and a healthy dash of white pepper on the slightly alcoholic finish. A well made wine but could do with a little more finesse.

Dan Murphy's Cleanskin Lexia, South Eastern Australia 2006

2008-08-08T17:37:00.004+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD5 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 12.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 80
Value: NR

Slightly sweet, honeyed nose. Nothing else much in terms of aromas - rather generic. Palate is off-dry, slightly flabby on the finish. Nothing out of the ordinary, a bit like drinking alcoholic fruit syrup.

Paringa Estate "Peninsula" Pinot Noir, Mornington Peninsular 2006

2008-07-30T23:46:00.007+08:00

Source: Delicatessen @ Mt. Lawley Perth
Price: Approx $A35
Closure: Screwcap; 14% Alcohol

Jing:

Score: 95+
Value: ******

Despite being a boutique winery and late bloomer into the wine market, Paringa Estate has definitely shown its prowess in making brilliant Pinot Noir. Voted best Australian Winery in 2007 by James Halliday, there was no way that I would not buy this bottle!

This immaculate pinot is brilliantly clear in colour with dark fruit notes. Decanting the bottle definitely brought out the aromas of plum and cherry . Clean and silky finish, with intense palate. palates.

Even though the winery rates the Peninsular Pinot as its 4th tier Pinot in comparison to the Estate Pinot, Reserve Selection and Barrel Selection, I would definitely love to see how it matches up with the rest! Go grab a bottle if you have the chance to!! =)

Green Point NV Brut, Yarra Valley

2008-07-30T22:32:00.004+08:00

Source: Boutique Wine Shop @ Millenia Walk
Price: Approx $S50
Closure: Cork; 12.5% Alcohol

Jing:

Score: 90+
Value: ****

Wholly owned by Moet et Chandon, Green Point or Domaine Chandon Yarra Valley has long been one of the main tourist attractions of Yarra Valley. The vineyard tour includes a guided tour of how champagne or "sparkling wine" is made; as well as a tasting session of their finest products at the very end. I never did get a chance to walk away with a bottle that day, but interestingly enough, you can actually purchase it at the wine shop in Millenia Walk!

A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, this brut has fragrant aromas of fresh citrus fruits with a clean crisp finish. A good bubbly if you are getting a little tired of straight whites!

Petaluma Red, Coonawarra 2000

2008-07-27T21:05:00.004+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD49.90 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Cork; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 95
Value: *****

More developed, rather matured nose that is somewhat reminiscent of a Bordeaux but with more fruit. Egg-like oak together with flowery black fruits. Gorgeous nose that has plenty of character. Palate is medium-bodied with lovely integration of fruit, acid and tannin. Tannins are still rather prominent on the finish even after the tannin fades off, the primary fruit flavours are still evident and lingering. Concentrated, ripe fruit flavours together with great structure make this wine a perfect candidate for cellaring for another 5 years easily. A perfectly balance beauty that really puts Coonwarra on the map for top-notch Cabernet.

Katnook Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra 2004

2008-07-27T19:21:00.004+08:00

Source: Ivan
Price: AUD30+ from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: ****

Gorgeous and quintessential Cabernet nose from Coonawarra - lovely blackcurrant, not over-ripe and flowing with fruit but slightly restrained. Interwined beautifully with oak and hints of vanilla. Palate is medium bodied with still firm tannins but wonderfully structured. Some bark-like flavours on the palate but not too obvious. Would be great with an aged rib eye steak.

Josef Chromy Pepik Pinot Noir, Tasmania 2007

2008-07-27T18:11:00.008+08:00

Source: Aaron
Price: Below AUD20 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 12.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 87
Value: ****

Rather light in colour. Fleeting elegant aromas of cherry and some heavy peppery spices. Brisk acidity on the palate with quite a good dose of sweet red fruits. Primary and enjoyable without much influence from the oak. Tannins are smooth and unobtrusive. A simple, straightforward Pinot that goes well with the fried rice and roast chicken that we are having tonight.

Peter Lehman Cabernet Sauvignon, Barossa Valley 2002

2008-07-17T18:40:00.006+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD 22 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Cork; 14.5% Alcohol

E-Hern:

Score: 83
Value: **

Opulent nose of oak, mature fruit, dark chocolate and roasted coffee, slightly milky as well. Palate is surprisingly astringent with very tart acidity and alcoholic heat on the finish. Tannins are sharp and not very integrated. Rather awkward with some menthol notes on the palate. Was expecting more but must say that I'm rather disappointed.

Pizzini Pinot Grigio, King Valley 2006

2008-07-14T18:25:00.004+08:00

Source: Dan Murphy's
Price: AUD 17.95
Closure: Screwcap; 12.2% Alcohol

E-Hern:

Score: 92+
Value: *****

A slightly oily, buttery nose. Flowery and fruit-driven with a slightly off-dry palate with peach and apricot flavours. Brisk acidity and a lovely mouthfeel. Palate is medium to full bodied with a lengthy finish that lingers, bringing much pleasure. I think this is one of the best Pinot Grigio's I've tried.

Lindemans Limestone Ridge Shiraz Cabernet, Coonawarra 2001

2008-07-05T18:28:00.007+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD15 from Dan Murphy's (on special)
Closure: Cork; 13.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 87
Value: NR

Deep and brooding on the nose with a load of coconut, vanilla oak. The oak and spice really dominate the nose. Likely to be American oak I think, quite a lovely, inviting nose. Palate seems really youthful for its age. Medium bodied with still tons of tannin but somehow the fruit seems to faded quite a bit and isn't really keeping up with the tannin.

Taylors' Riesling, Clare Valley 2007

2008-07-01T21:58:00.005+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD13 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 13.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 84
Value: ***

Quite a nice, flowery nose, slightly sweet and powdery. Palate is simple and easy, very classic Riesling flavour profile of lime, lemon and crisp acidity. Some bitterness on the back palate and finish. Not terribly enjoyable especially on the finish.

Rosemount Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, South Australia 2007

2008-06-29T18:56:00.004+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD9 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap

E-Hern:
Score: 87
Value: *****

Inviting, fruit-forward aromas of melon and honey. Good concentration of fruit on the palate with nice green pepper flavours from the Sauvignon Blanc coming through more strongly. Crisp acidity that borders on effeversence, just a tad off dry which makes this all the more accessible and enjoyable. A great quaffing drink for under a tenner.

Vasse Felix Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River 2005

2008-06-28T19:26:00.006+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD30+ from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: *****

Classic Cabernet nose, blackcurrant, sweet oak and plummy fruit. A really appealling nose I must say. There's a minty freshness about it. Great depth of fruit concentration, sweeter and more fruit-forward than the Wynns. Medium-full bodied with rather firm tannin as well but the fruit sweetness on the palate makes it immediately more accessible on first tasting. A well made wine that really hits the spot.

Chateau Batailley, Paulliac AC 2003

2008-06-28T17:37:00.006+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD50+ from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Cork; 13.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 93+
Value: ***

The first Grand Cru that I've had since coming to Melbourne and I must say that I was really craving this. This was part of a 3 Cabernet based blind tasting - one Old World and the other two from premium Cabernet regions in Australia, Coonawarra and Margaret River. I think it was apt that we got the 2003 vintage for the Paulliac, heatwave conditions that year brought the levels of fruit and accessibility up in Bordeaux.

Beautiful aromas of coffee, toffee, pencil shaving and sweet plummy fruit. Immediately recognisable as an French Bordeaux. Medium bodied palate with lovely concentrated fruit, some earthy, meaty complexity and a smooth tannin and acid profile. Harmonious, lengthy and simply gorgeous.

TendreBulle - the only gay wine in the village?

2008-06-21T00:39:00.003+08:00

France's first gay wine TendreBulle Gay Vin by Domaine de Boyer launches on 1 July.

The wine, a sparkling rosé from Languedoc-Roussillon, will show two stylised heads, almost kissing, on the bottle. Underneath are the words 'Gay Vin'.

The letters G and L, for gay and lesbian, will appear on the capsule.

'I added the letters after some women at a wine fair told me the wine is only for boys,' said the wine's creator, Jacques-Edouard Pailles, a winemaker whose property is in Saint Martin de Villereglan, in the department of Aude.

Pailles said he started out wanting to make a rosé wine that would be called the gay wine of Malpierre, one of the local place names, but could not, because of AOC regulations.

'So then I thought it would be fun to make a happy wine, something festive, as in happy which is what gay used to mean in the middle ages,' he said.

Chateau Margaux 1981

2008-06-17T13:31:00.006+08:00

Special day is usually accompanied with special wine to be remembered

A befitting wine to commemorate Chang E-Hern's birthday.
Although he was in Melbourne and I was enjoying this in Jakarta but like the saying goes "it is the thought that counts"

Source: Randy "Jackson" (name has been edited to protect the identity)
Price: N/A
Closure: Cork

Leander:

Score: 94
Value: N/A

Colour: Dense purple hues, brownish around the edges

Aromas: Very open and aromatic. Aromas of cedar, Prunes and plums. There is a bit of smoky tones over the bouquet. As I came after the wine has aerated for about 1 hr+, the bouquet has evolved as described above. Willy mentioned it was quite closed when they first opened it.

Palate: First impression I get is this vino is full of finesse and elegance. Medium to Full bodied. Superbly balanced wine, rich with complex fruit flavors. Currants and chassis flavors seems to dominate. Some tones of leather and smoke. Moderate acidity with soft velvety tannins and a very long luscious finish. With heavy hearts I savored the last drop regretting of not accumulating more of this vintage when Chang E-Hern turned 1 yr old then. Oh well......Happy Birthday, E-Hern. Hope u enjoyed ur birthday wine...I sure did

Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz, South Australia 2003

2008-06-14T18:17:00.005+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD43.90 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Cork; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 93
Value: ****

Beautiful full-on nose stuffed full of dark oak, licorice, vanilla and fudge. Such a gorgeous nose that just begged to be sniffed and sniffed. Palate is chocked full of fruit and dark berries. Tannin is still obvious but not obtrusive. Lovely full-bodied and intensely flavoured. Opened up after a little time in the decanter.

Seppelt St Peters Shiraz, Great Western 2000

2008-06-14T17:18:00.004+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD50 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Cork; 13.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 96
Value: *****

Dark, brooding aroma of oak, chocolate and custard egg which I get in so many aged Shiraz. Gorgeous bouquet which is both bold and seductive at the same time. Palate is medium-bodied with refreshing acidity and such a smooth balanced palate. Fruit is still rather primary and just wonderful. Lengthy, elegant finish. What a memorable wine.

Australian Cleanskin Group Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough 2007

2008-06-09T19:49:00.005+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: Approx $A20 from Australian Cleanskin Group
Closure: Screwcap; 13.0% Alcohol

E-Hern:

Score: 89
Value: ****

Intense, full-on nose with tons of ripe, tropical fruit; not too much grassiness or greeness. Classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Great intensity of flavour and cutting acidity.

Though NZ Sauvignon Blanc has become a modern day icon and supply from Marlborough almost can't keep up with the worldwide demand, I'm starting to feel that it's almost predictable. Even before I taste the wines, I can already imagine how most Marlborough Sauv Blanc tastes like. Perhaps that is the case at this sort of price point but I would enjoy the region and varietal as a whole more if there were more varied expressions of this wine.

del Rios of Mt. Anakie 'El Pesca' Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Victoria 2001

2008-06-06T17:48:00.008+08:00

Source: Aaron
Price: AUD27 from Victorian Wine Showcase
Closure: Cork; 13.9% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: NR
Value: NR

I suspect that this wine is slightly corked, but I can still get sweet, vanilla and butter on the nose. Dark chocoloate and complexity apparent. Lush blackcurrant fruit at just the right levels of maturation, good acidity and tannin structure round of the finish.

Punt Road Cabernet Sauvignon, Yarra Valley 2003

2008-06-05T01:47:00.002+08:00

Source: Punt Road Cellar Door
Price: Approx $A26
Closure: Cork; 13% Alcohol

Jing:

Score: 92+
Value: *****

A tribute to where it all began, the Punt Road Vineyard in Yarra Valley is opposite St Huberts Vineyard. This bottle has a very powerful bouquet. Faintly earthy with intense blackcurrant fruit and dark chocolate scents. Medium bodied with a good mouthfeel. The fine tannins and gentle French oak make this a really decent bottle to have over dinner.

Tempus Two "Ziggy" Viognier, Hunter Valley 2005

2008-06-05T01:22:00.007+08:00

Source: Bottles & Bottles (Vivo City)
Price: S$23 or Approx $A10
Closure: Synthetic Cork; 14.5% Alcohol

Jing:

Score: 89+
Value: ****

I love bottles that have a quirky or funky label. Ziggy is winery Tempus Two's wine dog and he has been there from the very start so a wine named in his honour is only a fitting tribute!

This Viognier is a lovely mid yellow colour which exudes honeysuckle and musk spice aromas. A gorgeously refreshing palate ensues that is well rounded with plenty of apricot and peach characters and with a touch of sweetness. Good mouthfeel and well balanced. Very attractive wine at this price.

Australian Cleanskin Group Premium Shiraz, Heathcote 2004

2008-06-03T20:05:00.003+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD25
Closure: Diam; 15.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92+
Value: *****

My first cleanskin from Australia, heavily recommended to me by the owner of the store who said that this is the best Shiraz they have. After tasting this, I'm not going to argue with him.

Gorgeous aromas of sweet plum, blackcurran,t violets and mushroom, all of which is mixed with some fragrant vanilla and spices. The nose gives the impression of slight sweetness while the palate is choked full of fruit. Clean, refreshing and well balanced, this focused palate of purple fruits is framed by lovely, smooth, soft tannins and endowed with a long, white peppery finish. This wine is very well put together and has just the right amount of accessibility and complexity. Pass me another glass!

Boggy Creek Vineyards Barbera, King Valley 2005

2008-05-22T14:57:00.002+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD25
Closure: Screwcap; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: *****

Extremely aromatic nose of baked pastries, pitted black cherries and a smoking, woody tea-like vanilla scent. Full and concentrated on the palate, gorgeous flavours, ripe fruit that is almost bordering on being jammy. Tart acidity and rather firm tannins end of the lingering finish. Sour plums on the palate,

Smiths Vineyard Shiraz, Beechworth 2006

2008-05-20T21:27:00.004+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD28 from Victorian Wine Showcase
Closure: Screwcap; 14.4% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: *****

Deep and dark. Strongly scented with black fruits and licorice. Palate is medium to full bodied with tons of concentrated flavour and fruits. Well-integrated and balanced tannin and acid. Fresh and tangy with some sour red fruits. Lengthly, crisp finish.

Grant Burge Winemaker's Selection Shiraz, South Australia 2006

2008-05-13T19:43:00.005+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD11.40 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 70
Value: NR

Not a very fruity nose which is unfortunately rather dominated by somewhat harsh smelling oak. More unintegrated oak, tannin and acid on the palate that masks the fruit, making the wine rather unpleasant. Oak is overdone and the wine seems thin and unexciting. Rather forgettable, please give this a miss.

Yalumba 'Y' Series Riesling, South Australia 2007

2008-05-11T01:54:00.005+08:00

Source: Singapore Airlines In-Flight Wines
Price: Approx $A10
Closure: Screwcap; 12% Alcohol

Jing:

Score: 90
Value: *****

I have to be honest. I couldn't say no to the pretty SQ stewardess when she offered me a glass of wine. =p More interestingly, I was pretty surprised to see the Yalumba Y Series being offered on board my flight. According the the stewardess, this particular wine was new on the wine list.

Yalumba has always been known for its consistency when producing wines, be it cheap or expensive. The Y Series Riesling is made from grapes sourced from the Barossa Valley and Eden Valley.

Pale straw in colour, This is a very elegant light bodied wine. Aromas of grapefruit and apple blossom linger when you take a whiff. Although 2007 was known for its drought and low yielding harvest, this has not affected the taste. The palate is clean and refreshing showing grapefruit and lemon flavours with appealing intensity.

Definitely would love to get my hands on this bottle to cellar. Yalumba has once again showed its deft touch with wines of all prices.

Kay Brothers Shiraz, McLaren Vale 2004

2008-05-09T17:28:00.007+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD25.65
Closure: Screwcap; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 90
Value: *****

Gorgeous nose of candy and licorice, dark chocolate and toasted mocha oak. The charred notes are rather strong in the aromas, a tinge of meaty, matured scents as well. Medium to full-bodied with lots of flavour and sweet, ripe fruit on the palate. Rather elegant and refined mouthfeel I must say, I was expecting this wine to be more of a bruiser but it turned out to be rather surprisingly dainty. Smooth and balanced, this wine is drinking well now.

Seppelt Chalambar Shiraz, Grampians Bendigo Pyrenees 2005

2008-04-29T18:39:00.007+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD19.99 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 13.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92+
Value: ***** (I need more stars for this one)

I bought the 2004 vintage last year from Crystal Wines at a massive sale and I was completely stoked then to buy it at a price of SGD 37.60. Couldn't believe my eyes when I found this for under $20 even without a sale.

Gorgeous nose of immaculately balanced fragrant, peppery fruit bolstered by the classiest oak imaginable. Has a slight tinge of aged nuances, smells elegant and refined. Palate with medium bodied with all the characteristics of cool-climate Shiraz. Great ripe, woody tannins and just wonderful balance between the acid and the fruit. Lovely currant and plum coming up on the finish. Gorgeous and simply outstanding value for money.

Tempus Two Pinot Chardonnay, Hunter Valley NV

2008-04-24T20:08:00.006+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: Unknown from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Cork

E-Hern:
Score: 87
Value: NR

Just very hastily scribbled notes for this one - as much as I would love to take notes for every wine I taste, I just hate to pull myself away from the party to sit at my computer or whip out my phone to do a tasting note. I refer to it as "doing my nerdy thing"

Good aromas on the nose, nice and fruity no complexity but slightly caramel-like. Palate is bone-dry and not too inspiring but has clean, good flavours nonetheless. Nothing that really got my attention here.

Chandon Cuvee Riche, Yarra Valley NV

2008-04-24T18:48:00.004+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD27.50 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Cork; 13.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 93
Value: *****

Luscious palate that is just slightly off-dry with lots of strawberries. Very flavourful, fine bubbles, the sweetness just balancing the acidity. Some yeasty complexity and a long fine finish. I challenge anyone who doesn't really like bubbly to try this and see if it doesn't change their mind.

Wirra Wirra Scrubby Rise Shiraz Cab Petit Verdot, South Australia 2006

2008-04-23T22:15:00.004+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD12.35 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 70
Value: NR

Rather pungent aromas dominate the nose, making it slightly off-putting to me. Dusty, coffee-like and rather reminiscent of a cheap Chilean red. Palate isn't very harmonious at all with sharp acidity and a disjointed mouthfeel. Nothing in the wine seems very integrated. There is adequate fruit concentration with some dark fruit and some greeness. One of those wines that just make you feel a bit ill if you had more than 2 glasses.

Grove Mill Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough 2007

2008-04-21T19:14:00.005+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD28 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 13.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 93
Value: *****

Subtly flavoured, nice tropical, slightly sweet and not at all pungent and green grassy. Palate is very intense with great balancing acidity but not a tad out of balance or harsh. I get some guava and hints of peach and some tropical fruit. Wonderful mouthfeel and length - just one of the best SBs I've had in a long time.

Chandon Brut Vintage, Yarra Valley 2003

2008-04-18T17:26:00.004+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD26.50 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Cork; 12.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 88
Value: ***

A rather nice, slightly honeyed nose, bone-dry palate and tons of acidity on the palate. Not that much flavour or complexity though, none of the bread-like, yeasty influences that I like so much in bubbly. I would have expecty a bit more intensity and character for a 5 year old vintage sparkling but somehow this Chandon doesn't live up to it's branded name.

Seppelt Victorian Shiraz, Victoria 2002

2008-04-16T21:57:00.003+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD19.95 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Cork; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 91
Value: *****

One of my favourite value wines from a stunning producer which I had the pleasure to visit at Great Western. Pleased to have the chance to try an aged version of this wine.

An almost sweet, dark and ripe nose with beautifully balanced oak influences. Violets and blueberries. Palate is surprisingly light and elegant, hardly weighty at all. Lovely mouthfeel with some residual fruit sweetness on the finish. Good acidity and tannin (which are still a little obvious) on a palate that is rather packed with dark fruit. Ripeness levels are just perfect. I think this has at least another 3-4 years ahead of it, easy!

Orlando St Helga Riesling, Eden Valley 2006

2008-04-16T21:42:00.003+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD13.85 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 12.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 88
Value: *****

Classic cool climate Australian Riesling with crisp almost steely acidity, lemon flavours and a bone-dry finish. The nose on this is slightly flowery, showing good Riesling typicity though the fruit concentration on the palate is somewhat lacking. Could do with a bit more palate weight and flavour but still a well-made and enjoyable Riesling.

Viňa Bruna Vallformosa, Temparanillo, Penedés 2002

2008-04-15T20:50:00.004+08:00

Source: Gift
Price: Unknown
Closure: Screwcap; 12.5% Alcohol

Jing:

Score: 86
Value: **

I had to drink this bottle that has been sitting in my wine cellar for awhile. I was told that Temparanillos are not meant to be cellared and was a little afraid it would turn out bad.

The wine has a violet colour with ruby tones. There's a very fruity aroma (raspberrys and strawberries) and floral tones. Palate however was a rather disappointing. Rather light bodied and subtly endowed.

Paringa Estate Peninsula Chardonnay, Mornington Peninsula 2006

2008-04-13T17:21:00.003+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD20 from Cellar Door
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: *****

Lovely nose, not bold with nutty, buttery aromas but slightly stoney and minerally. Great flavours of melon and peach, crisp acidity with wonderful length. Oak is present but hardly noticeable and wonderfully compliments the fruit flavours. Intense fruit on the medium bodied and dry palate with lots of cutting acidity

Castle Rock Estate Pinot Noir, Porongurup 2005

2008-04-13T00:20:00.007+08:00

Source: Liquor Barons (Mends St)
Price: A$25
Closure: Screwcap; 14% Alcohol

Jing:

Score: 92
Value: *****

I walked into Liquor Barons the other day not knowing what to pick up and was recommended this particular bottle by the store owner. Pinot Noir from the Great Southern part of WA!

This wine has a light bright red colour. Fragrant with elegant strawberry and red cherry fruit. Palate interestingly has a spicy tinge, but has a good long lingering finish with fine tannins. Goes really well with Chinese food. Definately value for money for a everyday kind of wine.

Yering Station Chardonnay, Yarra Valley 2006

2008-04-05T20:07:00.003+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD13.90 for 375ml
Closure: Screwcap; 13.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: *****

Very similar to the Green Point though this is drier and more subtle with less fruit sweetness and concentration. I think the oak treatment in this is slightly lighter as well. Lighter and livelier on the palate with less obvious aromatics. Crisper and more mineral-like flavours. I'm hard pressed to decide which I like better.

Green Point Chardonnay, Yarra Valley 2005

2008-04-05T15:55:00.005+08:00

Source: Anabelle
Price: AUD22 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 13.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 92
Value: *****

Deeply scented nose with lifted aromas of sweet peach and oak. Rather full on the palate with lovely oak influences that bolster the fruit concentration. Does not come across as too cloying. Lovely balance with good clean acidity on the finish. Some fruit sweetness and great flavour.

Brown Brothers Moscato, South Australia 2007

2008-04-03T19:37:00.003+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: Gift
Closure: Diam; 5.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 87
Value: ****

Sweet sugary nose, very varietal characteristics. Thick and semi-sweet on the palate with some effervescence but not too much. A refreshing drink, straight-forward and flavorsome. Good, clean acidity to balance the sweetness. Would be perfect for a hot summer's day chilling by the Yarra.

Woodstock Shiraz, McLaren Vale 2005

2008-03-31T18:42:00.004+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD16.95 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 90
Value: ****

Ripe, milk chocolate nose with a healthy dose of coconut. Concentrate fruit and toasted black and blue fruits. Thick, juicy and almost a tad jammy and full-bodied with nicely dusty tannins which gives the wine great mouthfeel. Lengthy finish and crisp acidity all make up a rather enjoyable wine.

John's Blend Cabernet Sauvignon, Langhorne Creek 2002

2008-03-20T22:25:00.005+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD$28
Closure: Cork

Leander:
Score: 91
Value: ****

Colour: Deep red hue with orange tinge

Aromas: Very aromatic violet floral aromas. Potpourri like. Shiraz inclined bouquet with that purple characteristic

Palate: Medium bodied. Well structured and wickedly balanced wine. Proportionate balance of fruits and lively acidity. Violets palate. Elegant silky finish. Slightly spicy after taste misleading the rest of the lot into thinking that it is Shiraz. Still can be aged. Good wine though...good wine

E-Hern:
Tons of oak on the nose, almost but not exactly overpowering the fruit. Dark and brooding, a wine that I mistook to be a Shiraz. Quite a bit of tannins still left on the palate, I think that this wine should be aged for at least 4 more years.

Grant Burge Filsell Shiraz, Barossa Valley 2002

2008-03-20T20:04:00.004+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD38 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Cork; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 88
Value: ****

Lots of toasted coffee and toffee on the nose. Deep and intense with a great deal of oak present with plenty of dark fruits. Full bodied and very flavourful on the palate with quite a bit of acidity on the finish. Still a young wine, with the structure to age a couple more years. Somehow I think that this wine needs some time to really open up, the palate right now is a bit of a let down compared to the nose. Found it to be rather acidic on the finish.

Helen's Hill V, Yarra Valley 2004

2008-03-20T18:22:00.002+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD28 from Cellar Door
Closure: Cork; 12.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 90
Value: ****

One of the 2 wines I purchased when I visited the gorgeous cellar door at Helen's Hill. Thoroughly impressed by this blend of the 5 traditional Bordeaux varietals this is a wine that impresses with a full, elegant nose of red-black fruits and stunning oak. A certain spiciness and plum-like flavour add to the attractiveness. The next thing that hits you is the lush, smooth, impeccable mouthfeel of the wine. No hard edges at all, this wine just eases in and seduces your palate.

Clonakilla 'Hilltops Shiaz', Canberra District 2000

2008-03-20T01:34:00.004+08:00

Source: Michaelangelos Italian Restaurant
Price: $68
Closure: Cork; 13% Alcohol

Jing:
Score: 86+
Value: **

Looking at the condition of the label, I felt a little skeptical when the waiter brought over the bottle. But I decided to give it a go anyway....

Deep red colour with aromatic red and black fruits. The tannins are fine particulate, drying, and slightly adhesive. Medium to full bodied but with an inky finish. Rather disappointing for the stature of Clonakilla but I guess the restaurant's poor cellaring conditions would be a major factor in determing the overall quality of the wine.

I wont jump to conclusions, but I would love to try the same bottle, but under better cellaring conditions.

Langmeil 'Valley Floor' Shiraz, Barossa Valley 2005

2008-03-20T00:39:00.005+08:00

Source: La Vigna
Price: ??
Closure: Cork; 14.5% Alcohol

Jing:
Score: 94
Value: *****

I do apologize for not remembering the price, but I picked this bottle out of my cellar to celebrate Paul's bday. Dubbed the "younger brother" of Langmeil's flagship The Freedom Shiraz, the Valley Floor Shiraz is by no means a far cry from the Freedom.

Decanting it about 45mins to and hour before drinking, the wine has a very nice cranberry to purple hue with a bouquet of ripe plummy and dark black cherry with earthy notes. Palate displays very fine toasty oak tannins with an exquisite soft dry finish.

Really good bottle that would drink well now as well as over the next 10 years!

St Hubert's Cabernet Merlot, Yarra Valley 2004

2008-03-20T00:19:00.005+08:00

Source: Unknown (Gift)
Price: Approx $25 AUD
Closure: Cork; 13.5% Alcohol

Jing:
Score: 90
Value: *****

Established in 1862, St Huberts was once a grand dame in Yarra Valley. However, it is now part of the conglomerate Foster's Group.

Very well made with juicy berry fruit aromas. Medium bodied with luscious cassis and strong blackcurrant fruit. Palate is fine and soft but with lingering tannins. Cheap and very reasonable for everyday drinking.

Turners Crossing Shiraz Viognier, Bendigo (Victoria) 2004

2008-03-19T23:48:00.005+08:00

Source: Turner's Crossing Cellar Door
Price: Approx $29 AUD
Closure: Screwcap; 14% Alcohol

Jing:
Score: 96+
Value: *****

I once read that for a wine to be labelled as a Shiraz Viognier, it should contain at least 5% of viognier. However, this particular beauty has only 4% Viognier and 96% Shiraz! I had to buy a bottle after reading rave reviews about wines from this vineyard (esp. the Shiraz Viognier) which was founded in 1999.

Aromas of Sweet black and red stone fruits clearly surround this bottle. The Viognier aromatics is very well lifted by these scents! The palate is complementary to the aromas, rich, round and medium bodied with intense fruit and some savoury, earthy elements. Interestingly, tannins are supple on this bottle.

Definately a bargain for this beauty.I would definately like to have a few more to see how it turns out over time!

Carlei 'Green Vineyards' Chardonnay, Yarra Valley 2004

2008-03-19T23:12:00.006+08:00

Source: Crystal Wines

CellarPrice: Unknown - (Gift)

Closure: Diam; 13.5% alcohol

Jing:

Score: 93+

Value: *****

Very light yellow in colour with a greenish tinge. First whiff and you will be hit by aromas of roasted nuts and citrus fruits. There is also hint of vanilla oak covering up the fruit. The palate is focused with peach and grapefruit flavours. The creamy texture that is dry with crisp but gentle, firm acid at the finish.

Good bottle for a Barbie...=)

Best's Thirteen Acre Cabernet Sauvignon, Great Western 2002

2008-03-19T19:56:00.003+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD19.99 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Cork; 13.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 91
Value: *****

After trying Best's Bin 0 Shiraz, I'm more excited than ever to try their whole range of wines and visiting the vineyards this weekend.

Such a beautiful nose that is just screams Cabernet. Lush, ripe blackcurrant fruit and a slightly aged hint about it, together with gorgrous underpinings of fragrant oak. Everything in balance on the palate with very slight meatiness and mint flavours. Fresh acidity, wonderful concentration, soft dusty tannins all add up to a pretty spectacular wine.

Woodlands Cabernet Merlot, Margaret River 2006

2008-02-23T18:59:00.003+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD19.99 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 13.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 83
Value: *

Very bark-like, pencil shavings together with some sweet vanilla and incense. Rather light bodied and subtly endowed on the palate. Leafy and just a tad under-ripe I think. It's smooth and balanced but the green tinge is a little too obvious for me.

Tried it the next day and honestly, it was quite rubbish. Could this wine have been a victim of the poorer 2006 vintage in Margaret River?

Seppelt Victorian Cabernet Sauvignon, Grampians 2005

2008-02-23T18:36:00.003+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD13.30 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 91
Value: *****

Very dark and brooding on the nose, charcoal-like oak, beautifully ripe and not a hint of herbaceous quality. Medium bodied on the palate with very firm, dry tannins. Lots of Cabernet quality, great blackcurrant fruit shining through the structure. I think this wine need some time either in the decanter or in the cellar to open up. Very tightly wound at the moment. The nose opened up with some swirling to reveal luscious, chocolate & licorice infused dark fruits.

I've always been a fan of Seppelt even though I have only tried their entry level wines. I can't wrap my mind around the fact that this wine is only $13.30.

Black Sheep Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough 2006

2008-02-16T23:04:00.007+08:00

Source: Bottles & Bottles (Vivo City)
Price: $25
Closure: Screwcap; 13% Alcohol

Jing:
Score: 88+
Value: ****

I must say that I was really intrigued and amazed when I saw this bottle. The label design was really cute and innovative, but more interestingly, this wine was actually made by Steve Bird (of Bird Wines fame) for the Rather Clever Wine Company of New Zealand.

Typical Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc nose, with aromas of passionfruit, citrus and a hint of strawberry. Not too grassy. Palate is fruity with a fine vein of acidity running through the wine giving excellent balance and a clean crisp snap to the finish. Decent wine for everyday drinking or one for the road.

Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiaz, South Australia 2004

2008-02-14T12:57:00.009+08:00

Source: Vintage Cellars
Price: AUD55
Closure: Cork; 14.5% alcohol

Jing:
Score: 93+
Value:****

Dubbed the ‘Poor Man’s Grange’ or ‘Baby Grange’, (in part because components of the wine are matured in the same barrels that held the previous vintage of Grange) the Bin 389 is made up of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and 47% Shiraz.

My first impression of this bottle was that it's been built to last. Dark and vibrant purple, the nose is deeply scented with alluring and lightly spicy aromas of crushed dark berries and cedary oak. The oak is seamlessly integrated and the wealth of fruit is shy at putting its best step forward. Patience is required here, but it is a very good wine. Brooding, tight, grainy, dusty blackcurrant and tobacco and plums, which with time also offer up the scent of violets, even pepper. The tannin structure is significant, but appropriate to what the wine has in store. It's also worth noting that as wine, it smells and tastes more Cabernet dominant. Definitely worth its price!

Glaetzer Wines Godolphin Shiraz Cabernet, Barossa Valley 2005

2008-02-14T11:22:00.011+08:00

Source:
CellarPrice: AUD70 from La Vigna / $89 from Denise Wines
Closure: Cork; 14.5% alcohol

Jing:
Score: 96+
Value: *****

Finally! The much awaited Godolphin from Glaezter Wines. I've been wanting to try this wine ever since I bought it but never did get a chance to. I defy anyone not to be struck dumb by its flavour impact.

The 2005 Godolphin is a blend of 80% Shiraz (from 85-year-old vines) and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon (from 60-year-old vines), was aged in 100% new oak. The nose offers an explosively aromatic array of red and dark berry scents accompanied by vanilla, sandalwood, cola and baking spices. The Godolphin has lashings of chocolate and mocha, not oaky or excessive, just rich, smooth and fleshy with fruit sweetness to burn, underlined by soft tannins. This wine is definately a keeper! I love it! Ben Glaezter has proven once again why he was once voted Australian Wine Maker of the Year.

An Interesting fact though....Glaezter Wines has since renamed the Goldolphin to the Anaperenna for the 2006 Vintage.

Best's Bin 1 Shiraz, Great Western 2005

2008-02-08T18:51:00.000+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD26 from Dan Murphy's
Closure: Screwcap; 14.5% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 91
Value: *****

I must say that this wine's label looks splendid, simple yet elegant at the same time. Mind you, this wine isn't just a pretty face. Deeply scented nose with loads of woody spices and fragrant red fruits. Smells flowery almost and the oak components have to be smelt to be believed. I think the 18 months spent in a mix of French and American oak did plenty of justice to this wine. Medium bodied, elegant feel about this wine which is blessed with great concentration and length. Toasty oak intertwined perfectly with the fruit. None of that chunky, clunky, syrupy Shiraz, this one is a dancer, almost tastes like a Southern Rhone blend. I love it. The wine just keeps getting better.

Helen's Hill Estate Chardonnay, Yarra Valley 2004

2008-02-05T22:35:00.002+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD16.70 from Cellar door
Closure: Screwcap; 14.1% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 87
Value: ****

This is a real bargain Chardonnay and I get an even bigger kick being able to type "Cellar door" down. I've never heard of Helen's Hill estate prior to my visit to Yarra Valley but I must say that the wines are wonderful and estate is rather picturesque.

Intense, toasty, slightly buttery nose with savoury almond scents. Quite bold indeed. Palate has got some sweet melon and peach fruit flavours, great line and acidity. Oak and buttery components do not overwhelm. Finish is impressively long and lingering though I would prefer a little less fruit sweetness. Distinctly New World Chardonnay.

De Bortoli Gulf Station Gulf Station Cabernet Sauvginon, Yarra Valley 2006

2008-02-01T19:58:00.001+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD20 from Crown Liquor
Closure: Screwcap; 14.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 90
Value: *****

I just love walking across the road from my apartment to a liquor store that closes at midnight every night to buy a wine from an outstanding producer that isn't readily available in Singapore. I'm actually starting to like this place in spite of having to work like a dog.

I think this is the next range up from the Windy Peak range and on first impressions, De Bortoli delivers the goods again! Distinctly Cabernet in nature with lovely, fragrant blackcurrant fruit, not a least bit sweet or jammy on the nose and complemented perfectly with a nose of French oak. Palate is medium bodied and showing quite a bit of structured tannins on the background. But everything is in harmony - lovely mouthfeel, great length and balance. Just a hint of minty leafiness on the mid-palate and finishing off with some vanilla hints. The best wine I've had in Australia so far.

Wirra Wirra Scrubby Rise Sauvignon Blanc Semillon Viognier, South Australia 2006

2008-02-01T19:58:00.000+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD 18.50 from Liquorland Express
Closure: Screwcap; 13.0% alcohol

E-Hern:
Score: 88
Value: ***

What an interesting blend of varietals. I'm already starting to really like Sauvignon and Semillon blends and this one features a dash of Viognier as well, a varietal that has always intrigued me.

Lush tropical fruits on the nose - some honeydew and melon scents with a hint of honey sweetness. Thick and somewhat full-bodied on the palate with great fruit concentration balanced by lovely cutting acidty providing structure and length. Blessed with nice fruit sweetness that really smoothes out. Some lanolin/waxy flavours.

Tarra Warra Estate Tin Cows Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley 2005

2008-02-01T19:48:00.000+08:00

Source: Cellar
Price: AUD25 from Vintage Cellars
Closure: Screwcap; 13.8% alcohol

E-Hern:
Rating: 72
Value: *

My first bottle of wine in Australia. Stumbled upon Vintage Cellars in the middle of Chinatown one afternoon while walking back to office from a meeting. Was rather pleased with myself and since it was a Friday, I went back again after work to get this. Whole place was stuffed full of Aussies trying to get high.

Fruit driven nose with sour cherry, raspberries amidst some mild oak. Some stalky aromas somehow spoiling the nose a bit. Palate is light to medium bodied with crunching acidity, a harsh phenolic mouthfeel with lots of green, unripe stalkiness. Bitter and sour is just about the right description for this wine. Quite a disappointment, all disjointed and lots of hard edges.

Hope that this wine isn't an indication of the quality of wines I'm going to have during one year here. My fingers are crossed!