Chris Shanahan: Wine review — Annie’s Lane and Amberley Estate

Annie’s Lane Clare Valley Riesling 2012 $13.30–$21
Annie’s Lane, part of Treasury Wine Estates (spun out of Foster’s), provides a comparatively full, soft style of riesling (made by Alex McKenzie). I tasted, liked and reviewed the wine on its release in June. However, since then the fruit aromas and flavours have really blossomed, revealing a juicy spectrum of floral and citrus-like characters. This is common with riesling, especially in tighter, more acidic styles – some of which may take years to open up. And in great riesling vintages like 2012 the drinking rewards are greater. Annie’s Lane will probably be at its best over the next three or four years.

Amberley Western Australia Estate Shiraz 2011 $18.99
Amberley, part of Accolade Wines (previously Constellation Wines Australia, and before that BRL Hardy) won gold medals at the National Wine Show of Australia for both reds reviewed today. In 2011 as vineyards in the eastern states suffered from rain, fungal disease and cold weather, the west enjoyed balmy, dry conditions. These are expressed in the vibrant, berry aromas of the wine and a lively, plummy, juicy palate. It’s medium bodied, simple, fruity and ready to drink now. The region is given as “Western Australia”, suggesting a blend of regions, most likely the cooler areas to the south.

Amberley Estate Secret Lane Margaret River Cabernet Merlot 2011 $19.99
This gold medal winner from the National Wine Show of Australia comes from Margaret River, a mild maritime climate well suited to production of the Bordeaux varieties cabernet sauvignon and merlot. The wine’s attractive aroma reveals the ripe berries, with underlying leafy notes, typical of good cabernet. Oak contributes, too, adding a pleasant dusty, cedar-like overlay that works well with the fruit. The elegant, medium bodied palate reflects the aroma. Fine tannins give the wine structure, but gently and softly – which makes for pleasant current drinking. It’s a style to drink young fresh – no cellaring future here.