Z*D Blanc de Blancs 2008 & Giesen Estate Merlot 2010
Z*D Blanc de Blancs 2008
Chandon Wines from Victoria has just released an intriguing bubbly that has been
fermented without using the conventional sugar measure after disgorgement -
every bottle instead is topped up after its disgorgement with its own wine.
It has been sealed with a crown top similar to the type that seals beer and
soft-drink bottles, they believe this will guarantee the wine cant be
broached because of a questionable cork.
This new to the market Z*D Blanc de Blancs 2008 is a sparkling ultra dry made
from Chardonnay grapes grown from vineyards located in Strathbogie, about an hour
and a half north-east of Melbourne, the Yarra Valley also located not to far
from the city outskirts and the King Valley in north-eastern Victoria. The
grapes from each of those regions were fermented separately and then combined together
into the final blend.
The outcome is an genteel and balanced wine with a sharp and invigorating
finish. It has the classically archetypal Chardonnay flavour of citrus and green apples and
with a taste that offers suggestions of fresh-baked pastry and agreeable aromas
of white peach and pears.
Costing $39.95 it will combine well with most types of light finger food light
and canapés. If you like it as a main course though, then try it with
oyster starters and grilled lobster.
TO TRY WITH LUNCH
When you're thinking of New Zealand you think, in the main, of the South Island
with it's Sauvignon Blanc wines. If, however, you head to the east coast of the North
Island, look to the Gisborne area where you can locate some great other varieties, which includes
Merlot.
One memorable drop is from Giesen. It is a 2010 Estate Merlot that has
outstanding aromas of boysenberry, blackberry and suggestions of spice,
characteristics that are beautifully emulated in it's succulent palate.
Priced at $18.99 it can be beautifully matched with lamb shanks covered in a
smooth rosemary gravy. Whilst savouring this feast raise your glass to
James Cook, (who at that time was a Lieutenant) when, in 1769, first planted a
boot on New Zealand soil. That site has since become know as the city of Gisborne.
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