Bilancia Syrah 2004 – Leheny Gibson, Hawkes Bay – Alc. 13.5%, with a touch of Viognier and closed by screwcap, is in the race to be the best Syrah derived wine which I have had from outside France (tough competition from Fontodi in Tuscany, some from Valais and Clonakilla). Aromatics and fruit were from the same family as Northern Rhône, steely cherry and ivy, but was somewhat sweeter, thicker in texture, perhaps more generous. Body was quite full and tannic structure ripe. Still quite primary in flavour so I guess that there may still be improvement potential; 16.5/20.
Wachauer Riesling Smaragd 2006 – Freier Weingärtner Wachau – Alc. 13%, cork branded Domäne Wachau http://www.domaene-wachau.at/Start.48.0.html?&L=2 . I guess that this is a below the radar entry level Riesling Smaragd but it was very enjoyable being quite full with well developed aromatics including touches of petrol, lively acidity and crisp minerals and was mercifully free of that touch of burn which I sometimes meet on ambitious Austrian Riesling and GV; 16/20.
Langlois Crémant de Loire Brut – Langlois Château – Alc 12.5% - (approx. €12), made from Chenin, Chardonnay and CabFranc, bids fair, along with Foreau’s Vouvray, to be the best bubbly which I have had from outside Champagne. Crisply acidic, biscuity with white fruit and flowers, minerals and good length. Better that most NV Champagne; 16/20++.
Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise Cuvée Spéciale RG 2006 – Domaine de Durban – Alc. 15%, a sweet fortified wine, was bought for use in cooking. We consumed the remainder over about 10 days and it got better for at least 7. It showed the typically smooth and aromatic Muscat flavours, if a bit bland at first, but the fruit grew more complex with peach and apricot whilst spice notes including some refreshing ginger came out; 15.5/20++.