Woodstock Next Generation Montepulciano 2024
G 91
First planted at Woodstock in 2010, this is third-generation winemaker Peter Collett’s realisation. The zero oak handling shows off. It’s crunchy on the palate and full of vigour. Soft tannins fade to a clean finish. A slight chill would work in the warmer months. Drink now–2028 Zonte’s Footsteps Love Symbol Grenache 2023 G 91 Sweet wild strawberries, talc powder and cherry lip smackers. There is blue fruit too, a punnet of blueberries, a kiss of plum. Cherry liqueur-like intensity that is well countered with some gritty tannins, sappy rosemary and rhubarb stem. A dry finish with some Angostura bitters to finish up the final act. It’s laden with baking spices and old-fashioned Christmas flavours. Oak comes through, adding some nutmeg and cassia right at the end. Plenty of detail and does not lack for structure. Drink now–2028 Curtis Legion Merlot 2022 G 90 A jaunty little wine with raspberry compote, Christmas cherries and cherry cola on the nose. It’s perky with dusty tannins and enough acidity to keep pace with the ripeness of fruit. A coconut and redcurrant punch leads to carob, cola and chocolaty tones. This has more structure than you would bet on for the price point. This could handle medium-rare meats, and in fact a well-seasoned steak sandwich would really hit the spot. Drink now or cellar for 2–3 years further. Drink now–2028 Hither & Yon Fiano 2025 G 90 Dainty with honeysuckle and fields of wild freesia. Lemon sorbet and white tea. There is a sweet pineapple mid palate with acidity that fills in and circulates through the handfuls of fruit. A very pleasing wine that is far too easy to drink. This shows the floral and ripe summer fruits that Fiano is known for, made in a way that delivers immediate enjoyment. Softened edges and destined for colourful salads and prawns. Drink now–2027
Hither & Yon Mencia 2024
G 90
An inky pigmented wine with solid black fruit at its core, cassis and blackberry soothers. Some bay leaf, kombu and soft liquorice. An upbeat line of acidity and some powdery tannins. This makes for a wine with purpose and intrigue. It finishes with tar and a crumbly black rock minerality, some plum skin and bitter coffee granules. Drink now–2028
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The Vintage Journal
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