This week we're looking at All Aussie Arrivals - time to hit the road and grab a few of your favourite locals!
Vintage continues, with picking beginning sporadically across SA and WA. Here in Victoria, we’re still dragging our heels. Pockets of Heathcote have started, but the majority of Victoria is still waiting with bated breath for the perfect moment to get picking. Personally, I spent my weekend checking nets and tasting wines - both very important pre-harvest tasks, though one is much easier on the shoulders!
Whispers of Chaos
Born and raised in the Barossa by winemakers, you could be forgiven for expecting something more traditional from up-and-comer Marcus Torzi. Instead, he’s opted to make modern, understated and undeniably drinkable wines. A blend of Roussanne, Riesling and Semillon in the white makes for a textural, sumptuous drink, while the red combines Sangiovese and Cabernet, making what can only be described as a junior Super Tuscan. It's juicy, yet savoury, bright yet brooding. Two absolutely ripping wines that form the core of his brand for now - we can't wait to see what comes next for this young gun.
Tarrawarra Estate Swallowfield Pinot | $80
Winemaker Sarah Fagan has been on a 20 year trajectory upwards, leaving a wealth of exceptional vintages in her wake. Her latest move saw her finish up at De Bortoli and take over as head winemaker at Tarrawarra, where she has firmly proven her reputation is well-earned. The 2024 Tarrawarra Swallowfield Pinot Noir is an absolute triumph for her second vintage there, raking in accolades including 96 points from Phillip Rich at Halliday Wine Companion.
Foreign Friends 'Jeanne' Savagnin | $42
Foreign only until introduced, and we’d love for you to meet Jeanne. She’s a Savagnin from the King Valley, crafted by the top-notch team at Foreign Friends. Ticking all the boxes for great Savagnin, there’s a real sucked-lemon tartness up front, giving way on the palate to crystallised ginger and white stonefruit opulence, and a long, generous finish.
De la Bêche Chardonnay | $68
Well, since we all got so excited about the release of De la Bêche’s Aligoté, we could hardly pass up the chance to stock their Chardonnay. For those who missed it, De la Bêche is one of the most exciting new projects to hit Australia in recent years, focusing on close-planted Burgundian varieties in Macedon Ranges. Much like the Aligoté, this wine is unlikely to stay on the shelves for long, so don’t delay if you’re keen to see just what the hype is all about.
