Tasting notes

BROKENWOOD SEMILLON 2016 | $30

Iain Riggs established a new benchmark for semillon in 1983 with this more forward, fresh gem that has lemongrass and citrusy flavours. At just 10.5 per cent alcohol (which makes an extra glass at lunchtime possible), it forms a textbook duet with freshly shucked Port Stephens oysters.

TYRRELL’S WINES HVD SINGLE VINEYARD SEMILLON 2011 | $35

The HVD vineyard was planted in 1908 on a sandy creek bed, its drainage important during the cycloneaffected seasons. This semillon has candied honey and dried Provence herb aromas and a sleek palate of lemongrass, lime marmalade and ginger tea. Baked snapper, please.

MARGAN BREAKING GROUND BARBERA 2015 | $40

With their refreshing take on wine and food, Andrew and Lisa Margan are the king and queen of Broke. Their barbera exudes blueberry and riberry fruits, with a pleasing balance of acid and tannin. Pair it with the pork belly on their restaurant’s menu (see page 148).

MOUNT PLEASANT ROSEHILL VINEYARD SHIRAZ 2014 | $50

The legendary Maurice O’Shea planted the Rosehill vineyard in 1946. With black fruit and lots of earthy spices (aniseed and clove), this shiraz has a rich mouthfeel and gently persistent finish. It deserves cellaring for 10 years but would be more than happy with lamb shanks now.

TULLOCH PRIVATE BIN POKOLBIN DRY RED SHIRAZ 2015 | $52

The Tulloch family celebrated its 120th anniversary in 2015 and this is a suitably old-school dry red. Its modest 12.9 per cent alcohol tells of a tricky vintage but the flavours are sweet and red-fruited, with a subtle palate and soft, fluffy tannins. Beef bourguignon is the ideal pairing.