February Wines of the Month: Australian “pinosity” in focus

on 02/02/2015 at 9:00 am

Adelina Grenache 2012

“Pinosity” abounds on the Australian red wine scene at the moment. The Burgundian ones sensual attributes and mid-weight palate are by no means confined to Pinot Noir or indeed the Shiraz/Pinot Noir blends which are re-surfacing in the Hunter. Take the country’s cool climate Shiraz and new breed of “warm climate Pinot Noir” a.k.a. Grenache – both my Wines of the Month are cases in point.

Adelina Grenache 2012 (Clare Valley)

I discovered the colourfully labelled wines of Adelina at last week’s Australia Day Tasting. The Gardner family’s vineyard is propitiously located next to Wendouree; this Grenache is sourced from an elevated (450m) 2 acre block of 80 year old vines on sandy grey loams. It is an aromatic, very intense, mineral Grenache with beguiling sweet red fruits (plum and raspberry) and soaring violets and sandalwood. Slinky tannins and mineral sluiced (beautifully integrated) dancing acidity carry a long very lithe finish. 14.8% abv is worn lightly. Captivating.

Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier 2013 (Canberra District)

I always look forward to tasting Tim Kirk’s peerless Shiraz Viognier; the 2013 fulfilled every high expectation. With its ethereal perfume, subtle savouriness and flourish of red, black berry and plum fruit, this medium-bodied Shiraz sat very comfortably indeed alongside a flight of top Aussie Pinot Noirs. By great sleight of palate its juicy, fleshy fruit pulsates with life and five spice, somehow holding its place and presence in the mouth whilst lingering for ever so long on the back palate. Terrific force of impression with delicacy. Wow. 14% abv

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