Brown Brothers Pinot Noir Chardonnay Pinot Meunier NV (Victoria)

In Australia we’re in the habit of comparing our wines against what France has to offer. In a lot of these benchmark type tastings it seems we do very well, however, one area in which i think there is generally a big difference is Champagne vs Aussie Sparkling. Notwithstanding some pretty impressive sparkling coming out of Tasmania, Aussie sparkling often seems a touch harsh after a Champagne. That said, each wine deserves to be considered on its own terms, and when one considers that this Brown Brothers NV has an RRP of $20, it’s an impressive wine.

The thing that sets this sparkling apart from its similarly priced alternatives is balance and length. Nothing sticks out and the length of finish really is fantastic for a wine of this price. It’s dry with citrus flavours and some lovely creaminess. Not especially complex but entirely enjoyable. I ummed and ahhed between giving this 3.5 and 4 stars, but given that fantastic length, and given I'm in a parochial mood, I’m going to give it a nudge . . .

Rated:


RRP: $20
ABV: 12.5%
Website: www.brownbrothers.com.au


Red

2009 Finca Flichman Oak Aged Roble Malbec (Argentina)

A few weeks ago (3 to be more precise) a few friends and I were at our local - only - wine bar in Randwick, Sydney. Hungry and thirsty, we wanted a relatively affordable red to go with our assorted Tapas that was on its way to the table.  I am always up for trying a new Malbec (and am heading to Argentina in February whilst heading to a mates wedding), so we settled on the 2009 Finca Flichman Aged Roble.

Aged for 4 months in oak and another 3 in the bottle prior to release, the wine was approachable from the outset without being too simple/jammy. On the palate there were soft, plush, juicy dark cherry and dark berry fruit flavours, with an earthy dark chocolate and spice finish. Oak imparted tannins were in the background, though sufficiently prominent to provide enough structure to support the juicy fruit.

This is an affordable, easy drinking, approachable and versatile wine. It will not dazzle with its complexity, though it went very well with a range of tapas dishes and would also be a nice match with a medium-rare slab of steak (is there a Malbec out there that does not?).

Rated:
+ *

RRP: $15-20
ABV:13.5%
Website: http://www.flichman.com.ar/ingles/home_esp.htm

PS -  + for the relative value of the wine at the wine bar, * for the fact it is a 'dinner party stress reliever' - eg: you can order two bottles of it for a table of mixed guests and not upset the wine geeks and wine neewbies

2008 Cape Mentelle 'Trinders' Cabernet Merlot (Margaret River)

Another 08 Cape Mentelle wine, only this time it’s the Trinders Cabernet Merlot. Same score as the Chardonnay, only this wine provides more interest and appeal at this stage. In fact, looking at the note I wrote on this wine, I could just about have used the note I wrote on the 07, which was a wine I really enjoyed as well

The nose has a bit of sex appeal with some lovely integrated French oak, blackcurrant, black olive, tobacco, and touch of eucalypt. On the palate it turns decidedly dry and savoury. Its medium bodied with some chocolate, dried herbs, and a long, slightly sour finish. All of which is supported by unobtrusive acidity and fine, powdery tannins. As with the 07 it’s beautifully poised and if cellared well, should do 10 years in a canter.

Given that this can be picked up for under $25 in many places there aren't to many classier Cabernets going around for the price . . .

Rated:


RRP: $32
ABV: 13.5%
Website: www.capementelle.com.au



Red

2008 Cape Mentelle Chardonnay (Margaret River)

This is undoubtedly a high quality Chardonnay and yet for me it lacked a little something in terms of either intensity or generosity.

A subtle nose of citrus, fig, and spice is followed by a palate that’s smooth, balanced, and with a nice line of flavour. It tastes of grapefruit, cloves and just a touch of creaminess before delivering a long finish. It’s just about a picture perfect rendition of modern Australian Chardonnay providing a sense of restraint and demonstrating a judicious use of oak. But that might be the problem as well in that it lacked a bit of personality or interest. Perhaps, however, I’m just drinking it a bit too young and time could very well be kind to it, as it undoubtedly has the balance to age well. I'll leave my other bottles of this in the cellar for at least a few more years.

Rated:


RRP: $42
ABV: 13.0%
Website: www.capementelle.com.au


Red