Summer in Australia: The sound of waves lapping against the hull, seagulls scrapping over discarded fish n’ chips, and the cricket on the radio. Time to kick back and enjoy quality family time. We got it good here in the lucky country. And a large part of that experience is down to an abundance of fresh food and great wine.
But what makes a great summer wine?
Generally speaking, on a hot summer’s day, we want a refreshing experience. The wine needs to be crisp and have the right balance of natural acid and fruit. It may be the racy herbaceousness of sauvignon blanc, the citrusy zing of riesling, or the stone fruit flavours of an un-oaked chardonnay. The lighter-bodied reds, such as pinot noir, grenache, tempranillo, and even cooler climate shiraz, can also be enjoyed slightly chilled on a hot day… and let’s not forget rosé.
The common thread running through the wines is acidity. It is what makes us come back for the next mouthful… and it is best enjoyed with food.
TOP 5 SPARKLES
Jansz NV (Tasmania). Honeysuckle and citrus scents are immediately apparent, with delicate fruits and a lovely creaminess washing through the mouth, leaving a lingering finish of citrus and nougat.
Bollinger Special Cuvee NV (France). For that special occasion, the complexity and richness is unparalleled among entry-level non-vintage blends.
Ninth Island Sparkling Rose (Tasmania). Tyson Stelzer’s best value bubbles under $25. Aromas of rose petals and strawberries. Another Tasmanian beauty!
Astoria Prosecco (Italy). Delicate, fresh, and fun. This Italian wine has loads of flavor, and has a crisp and dry finish.
Peter Rumball Sparkling Shiraz (SA). A Christmas favourite, but can be enjoyed all year round. Quality Coonawarra fruit goes into this splendid and elegant wine. Try with duck or a strong cheese.
TOP 5 WHITES
Amisfield 2017 Pinot Gris (NZ). A multi-layered wine with great complexity, with pear and quince notes.
Jeanneret 2017 Watervale Riesling (SA). Aromas of citrus and white flowers with very complex and savoury elements. The palate is absolutely huge, textured, zippy, fresh and rich, and absolutely delicious. Rated 95 points by James Halliday.
Pasqua 2017 Pinot Grigio (Italy). Immensely drinkable and affordable wine.
William Fevre Petit Chablis (France). Quality French chardonnay showing balance and minerality. Classy.
SC Pannell Aromatico (SA). Created with Asian spicy food in mind. Mainly gewurtztraminer (traminer for short) along with riesling and pinot gris. Delicious!
TOP 5 ROSÉ
Villa Maria PB (Hawke’s Bay, NZ). Ripe berry fruits, with a long dry finish. A bargain!
83 2017 (Provence, France). Organic and serious wine, with lovely dry finish.
Turkey Flat 2017 (Barossa Valley, SA). Sells out every year at Corker Cellars.
Maison Saint AIX (Provence, France). Another classic from Provence. Très bon!
Listel (France). Fresh and crisp – just what we want in a rosé.
Find all these wines at Corker Cellars this summer.
By Alfie Pardoe
