Our three wines this week encompass a classic aged Barossa Shiraz, an Austrian specialty and a great value red from Spain.
Torbreck The Factor 2001
Unlike
many of the famous names of the Barossa, Torbreck does not have a long
history in the region, even if many of the vines that contribute to its
wines do. Dave Powell only started the winery in 1994, but his ability
to source grapes from old vines in the region, many of which he had
helped restore, led to near overnight success for the former lumberjack
(Torbreck is named after a Scottish forest
where he had worked). Quickly receiving rave reviews for his mostly
Rhone-styled reds, the winery makes excellent wines across the price
spectrum. The Factor has always been my favourite, and this 100% Shiraz
is drinking beautifully at 10 years of age. It's not cheap, but well
worth the occasional splurge. Drink The Steading in the meantime.
Fritsch Grüner Veltliner Steinberg 2009
The days of Austrian Grüner Veltliner being the new kid on the block
are long gone, but maybe its time to remind ourselves why this wine
became so popular. It goes well with food! Plenty of citrus and acidity on this dry wine, but it holds back from being overly punishing -
that said, it's better with food, becaiuse, well, it goes
with...seafood...prawns if you're asking, to help bring out the subtle
mineral notes and provide maximum enjoyment.
Descendientes de J. Palacios Bierzo Petalos 2008
Bierzo
is located in the north-west of Spain, and is only slightly better
known than the Mencia grape from which this wine is made. The 2009
vintage of this wine finished high up in Wine Spectator's Top 100, but
the 2008 is also excellent. It needs a little time to open up, so
decanting for an hour or two is a good idea. Plenty of juicy, ripe black
fruit, but with some stony minerality adding complexity. Keep your eyes
open for the 2009.
Previous week.
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