Weekly Tasting: Loire Chenin, Aussie Shiraz & Alto Adige

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Discover the Loire Valley's Chenin Blanc diversity, Heathcote's exceptional Shiraz, and Alto Adige's elegant Pinot wines—perfect for wine lovers!

Exploring the Loire Valley: A Treasure Trove of Chenin Blanc

The Loire Valley is a fascinating wine region in France. It is known for its diverse range of wines, particularly those made from the Chenin Blanc grape. Unlike many regions, the Loire does not have a single signature grape. Instead, it offers a spectrum of styles, from bone-dry to luscious sweet wines. This variety can be confusing for consumers, but it also creates opportunities for savvy wine lovers.

Understanding the labels is crucial. The terms Sec (dry), Demi-Sec (off-dry), and Moelleux (sweet) help guide consumers. For instance, the Domaine FL Savennières Roche aux Moins 2022 is a stunning example of a dry Chenin Blanc. It boasts vibrant citrus and floral aromas, alongside a remarkable mineral intensity. This wine showcases the potential of Chenin Blanc in the Savennières appellation.

In contrast, the Domaine Huet Vouvray Cuvée Constance 2018 is a dessert wine that captivates with its rich, sweet profile. Aromas of caramelized oranges and floral honey envelop the senses. This wine exemplifies the range of styles available in the Loire Valley, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

The Allure of Australian Shiraz: A Deep Dive into Heathcote

Australia’s Shiraz is often associated with regions like Barossa Valley. However, the Heathcote region in central Victoria is gaining recognition for its exceptional Shiraz wines. The Jasper Hill Vineyard, led by Emily McNally, is a standout producer in this area. The vineyard’s unique Cambrian-era basalt soils contribute to the depth and complexity of its wines.

The Jasper Hill Shiraz Heathcote Georgia’s Paddock 2022 is a prime example. It features deep aromas of blood plums, cocoa, and cedar. The wine’s structure makes it approachable now, but it will age beautifully until around 2030. This balance of richness and finesse is what sets Heathcote Shiraz apart.

Moreover, new producers are emerging in Heathcote, exploring less traditional varieties. Vinea Marson, for instance, produces Italian-styled wines that reflect the region’s heritage. Their Sangiovese Heathcote 2019 is a savory wine with notes of red cherry and dried rose petals. This innovation showcases the versatility of the Heathcote region and its potential for diverse wine styles.

Unleashing Alto Adige: A New Era for Italian Wines

Alto Adige, or South Tyrol, is a picturesque wine region in northern Italy. Recently, the Italian government approved new geographic units, enhancing the region’s classification. This change allows for a more precise understanding of the wines produced here. The region is known for its high-quality Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir, among other varieties.

Sirmian is a notable village for Pinot Blanc, where Nals Margreid produces exceptional wines. The Pinot Bianco Alto Adige Sirmian 2022 showcases the grape’s delicate characteristics and the region’s mineral-rich soils. This wine is a testament to the quality that Alto Adige can offer.

On the other hand, Mazon is celebrated for its Pinot Noir. Hofstatter, led by Martin Foradori, produces elegant wines from this area. The combination of distinct terroirs results in profound and graceful Pinot Noirs. These wines are gaining international acclaim, further establishing Alto Adige as a premier wine destination.

In conclusion, the Loire Valley, Heathcote, and Alto Adige each offer unique wine experiences. From the diverse styles of Chenin Blanc to the rich Shiraz of Australia and the elegant wines of Italy, there is much to explore. Wine enthusiasts should take the time to discover these regions and their remarkable offerings.

Photo by Nick Karvounis on Unsplash

Source: James Suckling – The Loire Valley’s Chenin Bargains, Australia’s Detailed Shiraz and Unleashing Alto Adige: Weekly Tasting Report (Oct 23-29)