Petaluma Piccadilly Valley Chardonnay 2023
G 92
Petaluma’s yellow label Chardonnay has developed its own varietal statement over several decades, this latest iteration slotting right into that fuller flavoured style, ripe fruited, white floral fragrant, peach and roasted cashew aromas to start, all echoed in the palate with an extra French oak layering courtesy of barrel fermentation (25% new) and 9 months’ maturation. While this builds a decent weight in the wine, there’s also a recognisable under-layer of acidity driving its finishing energy. Satisfies its reputational and stylistic distinctions. Drink now–2028 Pike & Joyce L’Optimiste Shiraz 2022 G 92 Medium crimson. A sophisticated nose, cranberry, pine, tarragon, beetroot and a strew of white peppercorns. Beautiful fruit density, met with an air of grace. Pure blueberry, currant and strawberry flavours threaded together by threads of juniper and white peppercorn. Sappy tannins support a tapered finish. ‘L’Optimiste’ – this is a wine I’d happily see in a glass half full. Drink now–2028 Pike & Joyce Descente Sauvignon Blanc Sauvignon Blanc 2023 G 92 Smoothed-down aromatics, more in the citrus spectrum with a touch a wild herbs, not too much, with a refreshing palate, again lime-leaning, some lantana flower aromas entwined, neatly measured acidity and pithiness. All-round delish, complete and well-mannered. 11.5% alc Drink now–2028 Press Co Pressed Shiraz Shiraz 2023 G 92 From Mike Press in his new venture and new label, a Shiraz with dark cherry, almost liqueur-like in its intensity, some mint and classic cool climate pepper notes as well, sliding nicely into a medium-bodied palate feel, evenly matching tannins, with its fruit and seasoning savouries all delivering great value drinking. Drink now–2034 Protero Gumeracha Barbera Barbera 2021 G 92 A bold wine from the outset, rich and ripe blackberry compote, definitely dark fruit driven in terms of its flavour feels, with a faint dusting of gravel and the variety’s well documented energetic acidity, which is offset with the arrival of a decent wave of tannins mid to late in the palate. Remains juicy, however, with those berry flavours refusing to be outgunned. Quite a forceful statement. 14% alc Drink now–2030 Riposte The Stiletto Pinot Gris 2024 G 92 Riposte is the family brand of Tim Knappstein and Son, based for many years in the Adelaide Hills after his formative years in Clare. This new vintage Pinot Gris is a noticeably pretty expression, the aromatics redolent with musk and Spring season florals, with a sweet apple set of tastes to follow, the palate richly textured which enhances the flavour profile and offers a light spice note to lift the finish. An attractive style. Drink now–2025
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The Vintage Journal – Regional Focus
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