It’s boutique, darling

As summer dances at our doorstep, smart sassy white wine is on my mind.

Victoria has a plethora of wine regions and some of the whites around for consumption this summer stand out as rippers. As the drought continues, winegrowers are becoming increasingly worried about what they can produce and, if I could offer any advice, it would be to start stocking the cellar now with boutique wines. Prices are on the rise and, as a result, some of these amazing products are going to be hard to get and will become very expensive.

Tin Cows at Tarrawarra Estate in Yarra Glen has a stunning chardonnay. The range is cheaper than the Tarrawarra range, and the 2005 chardy is made entirely from estate grown fruit. With a nose that is all melon and stone fruit, the crisp fresh zing on the palate is refreshing. It has a lingering acidic finish and subtle elements of oak that improve the overall body of the wine. At around $20 it’s a steal.

Marinda Park at Balnarin on the Mornington Peninsula offers a sensational Victorian-grown 2003 sauvignon blanc. Its nose is all tropical fruit and passionfruit aromas, and the palate works well with that. Hints of gooseberry and passionfruit work their magic on the tongue to produce a well-balanced, clean soft finish. It sells at cellar door for about $20.

Mantons Creek, also on the Peninsula, has a stunning 2003 pinot gris. This aromatic has a sweet musky aroma, with hints of apple blossom. In true pinot gris style, the palate is all citrus and lively acidity, with a soft caramel butter finish. It is expressive and perfect for drinking now. You can pick this up at the cellar door for around $22.

Also try their gewürztraminer with lychee, lavender and spice aromas, and a rich palate of exquisite length and balance. It’s around $45 but stunningly worth every penny.

Innocent Bystander in the Yarra Valley has a pinot rose that you must try. Whilst not a white it is a superb summer beverage served nicely chilled. With a spritely nose of spring blossom and shaved fennel, the palate on this little baby is all plum and blackcurrant. A zesty fruit finish will leave you lingering and longing for more. At around $15, buy a case of six.

From bnews – www.bnews.net.au.