White Wine Vasse Felix Filius Chardonnay 2021. Vasse Felix was the very first winery to be established in Margaret River in 1967 by the pioneering winemaker Dr Tom Cullity. Today the estate has four vineyards dotted across the region which benefit from an exceptional Mediterranean-style climate with proximity to both the Indian and Southern Oceans. The soils here also help to contribute to Vasse Felix’s unique style with a combination of schist and granite as well as gravelly loam which makes it an ideal spot to grow world-class Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Their Filius Chardonnay is crafted from specially selected plots planted on gravel loam soils which are vinified separately and then later blended after 8 months of maturation in French oak barrels. To add complexity and a deliciously creamy texture, the winery does regular lees stirring or battonage as the young wine is maturing. The result is a classic expression of the cool climate Margaret River with enticing hints of apple pie, fresh cream and tropical fruit on the nose. The first sip reveals a well-rounded texture, medium body and well-built structure with a long finish featuring ripe mango, pineapple and crisp lemon zest. A great wine to hold in the cellar for a few more years or enjoy now with roast chicken, cheeses or creamy fish dishes.
2021
White Wine Vasse Felix Filius Chardonnay 2021
White Wine Vina Aquitania Sol de Sol Chardonnay 2021. With a stunning setting right below the majestic Andes Mountains in Chile’s pristine Maipo Valley, Vina Aquitania was founded in 1990 by two well-known Bordeaux winemakers, Bruno Prats and Paul Pontallier, and their Chilean friend, Felipe de Solminihac. The project began with 18 hectares of land in the Quebrada de Macul where they initially planted predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon along with a little Merlot and Carmenere. This stunning Chardonnay showcases the purity and quality of the estate’s terroir, offering a modern take on this ubiquitous grape variety which is found all over the globe. The fruit is vinified in stainless steel tanks and left to age on the lees for 5 months before bottling. This allows the bright fruit flavours to dominate on the palate, creating a light and elegant Chardonnay that’s ideal for enjoying as an aperitif. Vibrant grapefruit, mango and papaya notes drift out of the glass first, followed by hints of cream, white peaches, and apricots. The first sip reveals a mouthwatering acidity, plenty of intense citrus and orchard fruit flavours, and a pure, clean finish. Pair with leafy salads, baked pasta dishes, seafood, or grilled fish to name just a few.
2021
White Wine Vitkin Israeli Journey White 2021. No need to decant. Vitkin Winery has earned a reputation for innovation in the Israeli wine community, elevating grapes that are often overlooked or underappreciated by other local wineries. Beginning with two experimental vineyards planted in Kfar Vitkin in 2002, this young, family-run business has employed the clay-rich soil of the Judaean Hills to marvelous effect, producing several series of kosher-certified classics. The Israeli Journey series of blends is a journey across the land of Israel. Grapes are plucked from varying terroirs across the country, from the cooler high altitudes of central Israel, away from the Mediterranean, to the hot plains of the Judean coast. This particular vintage is a blend of four grapes: the peachy Viognier, a sweet, lychee Gewürztraminer, the herby tea-like Roussane, and an acidic Colombard, bringing the wine some fortitude. Floral scents emerge from the beginning, with refreshing and tangy citrus notes. This is a tasty and extremely enjoyable medium-bodied white. Abundant yellow fruit flavours and notes of plum, pear and green apple all mingle delightfully on the palate. It is equally delicious alone as with food – consider pairing it with a white fish such as halibut or cod, or a light, fresh salad.
2021