New arrivals

The September wine tasting was held over two separate days with around 150 wines under the $25 retail bracket.

The standout performers were:

Coombe Farm Nellie Melba 2009

This blanc de blanc sparkling reveals a fine, delicate bead with aromas of grapefruit/melon which lead to a persistant palate with an underlying chalky/minerality, finishing tight and lean.

$27.95 per bottle /$22.35 in any six

Schulz Clara Semillon 2011

Aromas of fresh cut grass, lemon zest and grapefruit lead to a palate of tight clean lines of fruit, pure and easy to quaff. This disproves the theory that Barossa Semillon is a poor cousin to the Hunter.

$14.95 per bottle/$11.95 in any six

Silent Range Reserve Sauvignon 2010

Tim Long has crafted a wine that wine savvy AND novice drinkers will adore. A palate filled with tropical fruit but the added complexity of extended lees contact gives this wine mid palate richness and depth.

$24.95 per bottle/$19.95 in any six

South By Southwest Chardonnay 2009

Mark Messenger (winemaker) has really over delivered at the value end of the Margaret River Chardonnay sector with this bobby dazzler. A wine that has an abundance of delicate nectarine, grapefruit and guava is complemented by fine integrated oak.

$23.95 per bottle/$19.15 in any six

Squitchy Lane Red Square 2008

This red blend illustrates complexity far beyond its price tag. It has approachability, structure, depth of flavour, spice, length, elegance and everything in between.

$24.95 per bottle/$19.95 in any six

Hastwell & Lightfoot Tempranillo 2008

Intensely dark ruby red in colour with violet hues. Lifted dark cherry with spiced herbs on the palate backed by smooth long tannins in a fruit driven- style.

$24.95 per bottle/$19.95 in any six

Norfolk Rise Cabernet Sauvignon 2007

Aromas of cassis, dark chocolate and a hint of mint awakens the saliva glands .The palate is choc filled with ripe fruit, well integrated mocha cedar and a lingering finish.