2010 Fox Gordon 'By George' Cabernet Tempranillo

Continuing along the path of 'not so well known' wineries, Fox Gordon is one I'm very pleased to have recently discovered. With access to premium Adelaide Hills and Barossa Valley vineyards, the wines that are produced by former Barossa Valley Estate (think E&E Black Pepper Shiraz) winemaker Tash Mooney are elegant and balanced enough to be consumed upon release, but have the structure to cellar in the medium to long term.
My first foray into their wines was this 2010 Cabernet Tempranillo blend called 'By George'.  It is named after one of the proprietor's sons but I reckon it is better used for, "by george this is a good wine!"  When it was poured into the glass the colour was quite dark (as per the photo).  There was an immediate aroma of dark fruits which was so appealing I could have kept smelling it all afternoon.  On the palate it was medium to full body with a lovely juicy texture that seems to linger forever or, that could be because I was enjoying it so much I kept "tasting" it.  A four year old red of this quality at between $20-25 a bottle is great value.
www.foxgordon.com.au

Until next time and remember, live simply, laugh often, wine alot.

2008 Seraphim Chardonnay

I agree it is sometimes so much easier to buy a brand you're familiar with because, usually, you've bought it before and you know what you are going to get.  It's called 'playing it safe' and why wouldn't you.  When it comes to wine I can understand that, to a certain extent.  Well, I used to be the same but not anymore (mainly thanks to social media).
Recently I was lucky enough to have been introduced to a small one man concern in North East Victoria called Seraphim Wines.  Sam Scapari is the winemaker who has experience in California and the Mornington Peninsula where Pinot Noir and Chardonnay reign supreme.
The 2008 Seraphim Chardonnay ($22) is, quite simply, a delicious wine.  The aromas on the nose run through to the palate with lush creamy/buttery characteristics evident.  Yes, it is a rich, mouth-filling wine but not like the heavy, bold chardonnays of years gone by.  It is much more inviting and desirable.  As it turns out, there is still some of this available through the website (www.seraphimwine.com.au/product-p/2008-aged-chardonnay.htm) and I'm sure Sam's more recent chardonnays are just as good as this one. Find it, buy it and share it with friends.

Until next time and remember, live simply, laugh often, wine alot.

2007 McWilliams Lovedale Semillon

Semillon would have to be the most under-rated varieties in Australia (alongside Chardonnay).  There are so many excellent examples available at many different price points.  I've tried a few and believe me, they can be an excellent food wine and have tremendous ageing potential.
I have been fortunate enough to have a bottle of the 2007 McWilliams Lovedale Semillon in my cellar and, seeing as though every day is a day to open a special bottle, I decided to crack a bottle.  At $60 a bottle (able to be regularly found discounted to $40) it's not the most affordable example I know.
Even at 7 years of age this wine still displays some lovely youthful characters.  Lemon and slightly grassy aromas (which concerned me because I'm not a fan of Sav Blanc) but the palate was rich, toasty and the acid was so delicate.  I'm pleased I have another bottle tucked away because this will develop very nicely.  When to drink the last bottle? Maybe at my 60th birthday.
Do yourself a favour and find one and give it a try.  Not necessarily this one but have a look around for McGuigan Bin 9000 ($12), McWilliams Elizabeth ($15) and Tyrrell's Belford ($26).

Live simply, laugh often, wine alot.