A 22 degree halo is a visual moon ring, and according to folklore warns of forecoming climatic change. These stepping stone wines bring together grapes which originate from cooler European regions, with adaptive grape varieties well reputed to making great wines in our warm Australian climate. Grown in South Australia’s Riverland and produced by the forward thinking alternative varieties champion Ashley Ratcliffe, these are wines for our changing times.
Sauvignon and Vermentino – varietal Savvy flavours of quince, kiwi fruit and tangy melon alongside the apple, pear and almond flavours of Vermentino. Often we find ourselves describing Sauvignon Blanc we like by what it doesn’t taste like rather than what it does, if that makes sense (no cat pee and vegetals here), a juicy and easily sessionable white with plenty of appeal.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Montepulciano. Bright and juicy with some density, this contains a slug of Coonawarra Cabernet which shines through. Fruitcake and blackberries with plums and cherries around present but fresh tannins, an easy guzzling red with enough depth to be taken seriously.
Sangiovese and Vermentino, blended to an ultra pale orange-tinged shade of pink. Tangy, lip smacking and bursting with flavour, watermelon juice, blood orange, summer flowers, loads of flavour and a bigger body than the light colour suggests. A great pairing with barbecued vegetables and meats, curries, and any warm climate inspired dining, another ripping release from Ash and team.
Aglianco and Shiraz, blended to make a properly chillable red wine. The bridge between red wine and rosé you need in your life! Crammed with cherries and berries and a glug of Red Ripperz lollies, it glides down easily. Fruity but not overly so, and enough grip of tannin to remind you you’re drinking wine, a definite favourite for summer barbecues or anything with spice. A worthy addition to this growing category.
New to the lineup – 100% Glera, down the line deliciousness weighing in at 5g/L residual sugar. Citrus, green apples and pears, with a lively and cleansing bubble. A perfect all occasions style, and a solid backbone for spritzers too.
