Because it’s Friday and we’re probably all getting in the mood for yet another Zoom party, we may as well kick off with some fun pink bubbles from France! This sparkling rosé wine ‘La Folie’ hails from northern Provence, crafted using the Charmat Method (like Prosecco) this is a charming and fragrant rosé fizz with a delicate sparkle and a nose of small red berry fruits, fresh pink grapefruit notes and a hint of exotic pineapple. On the palate wild strawberry and raspberry flavours balanced by citrus flavours carry the beautiful signature of rosé wines from the South of France.
Looks like Saturday will be the coldest day of our lockdown so a warm winter red should do the trick here. The Cravens Place Shiraz is sourced from the northern, warmer area of Heathcote. A couple of degrees can make a big difference and allows for a modern, fruit-forward style with immediate appeal. Cherries, plum, spice and dark chocolate notes with currants, raspberries, and mocha. Don’t you just feel warmer already?!
#3 Sunday
No doubt we’re all taking the time to cook something hearty, the kind of all-day cooking that deserves a special bottle. My go to is usually roast lamb so for that I’m reaching for Cabernet. This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot with portions of Malbec and Petit Verdot adding complexity. A beautifully fragrant nose of cassis and anise with notes of confectionary. The palate displays excellent fruit intensity with forest berries at the fore. Fine dusty tannins support a long elegant structure.
#4 Monday
Barbera is a grape variety is naturally higher in acid than tannin. The nose exhibits plum and orange rind with spicy and savoury undertones. On the palate, expect plum & spices, backed up with savoury notes and a lengthy elegant and fresh finish. So spend some time preparing for something like a hearty Osso Bucco and polenta to enjoy with this and you’ll see the wine deliver flavour that can’t be beaten!
#5 Tuesday
Sunny weather again and we’re over the hump of lockdown so splashing out on a nice Pinot Noir. This one is mysterious and spicy, this aromatic and savoury Pinot Noir has a more European nose than many new world wines, with layers of complexity evolving each time you swirl your glass. Richer and more weighty than one would expect, carrying flavours of red fruits, cinnamon, star anise and charcuterie. And considering the season this wine is a asking for mushroom risotto.
#6 Wednesday
Possibly the warmest day we’ll see during lockdown so I’ll be switching back to white wine. The fruit for this Chardonnay is sourced from some of the Yarra’s most famous vineyard sites, the Sexton Vineyard, Gruyere Farm, Tarraford, Applejack, and Wombat Creek vineyards. Balanced style with striking aromas hinting at oak influence without overpowering. Stone fruit nuances and citrus complexity on the palate lead to a soft-yet-strong, persistent finish. And if you know me, this wine has got roast chicken written all over it one of my favourite dishes and pairings in the world.
#7 Thursday
We made it! Pinot Gris is versatile and also en-vogue at the moment. This is from the Adelaide Hills and with big brother winery Shaw & Smith it’s no surprise this example is classic and on point, showing both power and complexity. It has lifted pear, a touch of spice and floral fruits in a bright and fruit forward style. It has a great combination of crisp and quite zippy acidity combined with some textural richness. It’s also juicy and generous, with a touch of grip and a little sweetness to finish. Fresh, lively & textured. If you’re feeling guilty about all the rich cooking and consumption, this wine is suitable on its own, or with a simple chicken salad using your leftovers. Enjoy.
