Despite our best efforts to give all of our products a fair airing, there are lots of wines that are simply overlooked by staff and visitors; many hidden gems which may well punch above their weight or offer something more unusual and positively challenging. 

So we thought we would dust off the cobwebs and throw some of these little beauties into the limelight.

REASON #1 - IT HAS A BORING LABEL

 

France has to be the worst offender here. Lots of chateaux, limited label info, complicated classifications. But a classic Burgundian is a beautiful thing so why not give these wines a go... 

Sustainable with tiny production, these wines are exceptional gateways into the world of artisanal Burgundy. From the appellation of Mercurey in the Côte Chalonnaise.

1) Gaelle et Jerome Meunier Chardonnayhas fantastic fruit intensity with hints of orange zest adding freshness and vibrancy. There’s a touch of toasty oak, but it’s subtle and beautifully integrated, lending texture without overwhelming the purity of fruit. 

2) Gaelle et Jerome Meunier Pinot Noir is a standout 1er Cru Mercurey which offers exceptional quality and value as an alternative to the more famous names of Burgundy. With 12 months in French oak barrels, the result is a beautifully balanced wine, with subtle oak influence supporting vibrant cranberry and redcurrant fruit, underpinned by fine tannins and a fresh, mineral-driven finish.

REASON #2 - UNUSUAL STYLE - CHILLED REDS

Who really puts their red wine on the radiator? In this weather, stick them in the fridge for a bit. Most will benefit from starting off slightly cooler. 

The following wines can be chilled like a white wine:

3) Tooth & Nail Destinata Grenache 2021

4) Tooth & Nail Destinata Syrah 2021

Tooth and Nail are grapegrowers and winemakers in the Central Coast region of Paso Robles, CA; a hot and rugged place famed for its dark and heavy red wines. The Destinata wines challenge that perception, all made with minimal intervention (no added yeasts, no fining or filtration and only tiny additions of sulphur) from sustainably farmed vineyards.

5) Skinner Native Red 2019

Red blend of Southern Rhone and California heritage varieties including Mission and Zinfandel that pays homage to the land's legacy. With aromas reminiscent of luscious red fruits such as dark cherry, strawberry preserves, and dried cranberry, complemented by subtle undertones of wild sage, fennel seed, and earthy nuances.

REASON #3 - OUT OF THE WAY

We always have stock coming in or going out. So we are sorry if you can’t easily get to the wines by the window! Don’t forget about our small but select Aussie and NZ range.

6) The Kumeu Chardonnay is new on the

 shelves. The perfect aperitif Chardonnay, which also pairs very well with all types of seafood. 30% fermented in old French oak barrels and 70% in stainless steel tanks. Lively lime and lemon aromas, complemented by a flinty, mineral palate with notes of fig and white peach. 

7)Hesketh Woodside Gamay 2023, Adelaide Hills. They also do a Pinot Noir, but the Gamay is where it’s at. Cranberry, alpine strawberry, fine and silky tannins with a long finish.  

REASON #4 - NEVER HEARD OF IT

With 1,300 plus varietals out there to try, why not broaden your grape horizons and give a new one ago. 

8) The Blender Dry White Wine 3F Microwinery 2024, Greece.
Malagousua / Assyrtiko blend. Only 11.5%.White peach, citrus zest, lively acidity and subtle minerality.  

9)Kaba Gayda Red 2022 Yamantievs Winery
A Merlot-Cab Sauv blend with the addition of the native Rubin grape which grows in the Thracian Valley which is said to be a crossbreeding of Syrah and Nebbiolo. A smooth wine with blackcurrant and and black plum. 

10) Palomino Vino PH Citrusdal 2023
A grape usually destined for sherry production. This is an unusual and delicious South African from single vineyard palomino fruit, left on the lees for 12 months after skin contact fermentation. Bottled with minimal sulphur. 

Lots of good stuff to go at. Have a nose around and explore our full range!