Down Under Wines on the Way Up

October 2023
Written By: 
James Ginley
Photographs by: 
courtesy of the wineries

Taste some of Australia's best

Lobster Reef Sauvignon Blanc 2022
Marlborough, 
New Zealand $14 
Aromas of tropical fruits up front, and a palate loaded with guava, pineapple and mango flavors. Subtle hints of lemongrass and honeycomb on the finish with lively acidity. Serve with your favorite fish or chicken dish. A funky name, but a serious wine: Lobster Reef earned a 90-point rating from Wine Spectator.

19 Crimes The Uprising Red Blend 2021
South Eastern Australia $15
This brand has become popular with its talking labels and now Snoop and Martha have joined the party. The grapes are aged 30 days in rum barrels leading to jammy notes throughout. Deep ruby hue, red fruit aromas, and dark berry flavors add to a long finish. 14.5% alcohol will help you enjoy the Living Wine Labels App even more. 

Penfolds Koonunga Hill Chardonnay 2022
South Australia, Australia $19
Penfolds has been making wine since 1844, and this Chardonnay is one of its latest examples. Pale straw in color, with a nose of apple and melon, followed by tasty notes of toasted brioche, lemon curd and stone fruits. A delightful wine to pair with white fish and chicken simmered in creamy or butter-based sauces.

Shaw + Smith Shiraz 2021
Adelaide Hills, Australia $30
Since its first vintage in 1990, Shaw + Smith has grown into a respected winery, producing serious wines. This Shiraz has a red ruby color, with a fruity nose. Medium-bodied, it offers hints of pepper, raspberry and chocolate spice on the palate, with firm structure and tight tannins throughout. A big wine to pair with beef and venison. 

Astrolabe Awatere Sauvignon Blanc 2021 
Awatere Valley, New Zealand $18
A pale-yellow hue brings an intense bouquet of lemongrass and key lime. Bright acidity adds to the mouthfeel of grassy lime, mango and peach. Juicy and tart, it’s well suited for seafood dishes like shrimp ceviche, steamed mussels and crab cakes. Rated 93 points by Wine Spectator.

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