Dash Rumble

Sommelier, Eightysix, Canberra

What wine sums up the Canberra District in a bottle?

The 2013 Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier shows our terroir and is such an elegant drop. I also like the 2011 Helm Cabernet Sauvignon with its aroma of eucalyptus.

Which wine would you cellar?

The 2014 Lark Hill Mr V, a Rhône-style blend of viognier, marsanne and roussanne, is complex and textured but has some primary fruits so it will develop honeyed characteristics with a couple more years in bottle.

What’s good to drink now?

Any of the region’s rieslings, especially Bryan Martin’s Ravensworth pét-nat [sparkling] riesling. He has a very unique approach to winemaking, experimenting with odd grapes, yet all of his wines are approachable. The riesling is fresh and easy to drink – floral, light and acidic.

What’s the region’s most surprising wine?

I was blown away when I tried the 2017 Ravensworth The Tinderry cabernet franc and sauvignon blanc blend. It’s complex, fruit-forward and great value for money.

And what’s the best wine in Australia right now?

I’m so into La Violetta’s wines from the Great Southern region in Western Australia. The Almirante y Obispo and Yé-Yé Grisé have great character and structure.