TRY THIS SOFT TASSIE RED WITH SEAFOODS

Wc07Mar11

FULL-flavoured red that’s soft enough to enjoy with seafoods.

David Ellis

BROWN Brothers’ acquisition of Tasmania’s Tamar Ridge Estates in August of last year was a shrewd move, particularly as it included the very respected Devil’s Corner label that’s one to look for in value-priced, buy-now and drink-now cool-climate wines.

While not one of those regions that spring straight to mind when talking about Australian wines, the first vineyards were established in Tasmania in colonial times, although Tamar Ridge did not come on the scene until 1994. But they’ve certainly made their presence known since then and their first releases in 1997.

One that’s just hit the shelves under their Devil’s Corner label is a 2010 Pinot Noir that was made from fruit sourced from Tamar Valley and East Coast vineyards. Violet, black cherry and suggestions of ginger spice aromas swirl from the glass, and the palate is up-front with rewarding cherry flavours and savoury hints.

And interestingly while it’s a full-flavoured wine, this one is soft enough for those who like both their reds and seafoods on the table at the same time, or maybe a creamy risotto; good-value buying at $18.95.

IDEAL match with fresh oysters on the shell.

ONE FOR LUNCH: Another interesting cool-climate area is the NSW Central Ranges, and a just-released 2010 Rolling Sauvignon Blanc Semillon is a rewarding drop for those who like to try wines originating from vineyards away from our more major regions – and finding just how rewarding they can be.

Winemaker Debbie Lauritz chose fruit from the company’s own vineyards in the foothills of the Central Ranges and has crafted a wine that’s juicy and fresh with tropical fruit flavours and lemon zest acidity. Pay just $17.95 and enjoy with a plate of fresh oysters on the shell.

(NEED A FOOD/DRINK IDEA? Check out  http://www.vintnews.com )