Out Of The Bottle

With David Ellis

McWilliam’s 2009 Balance Shiraz & 2009 Wisdom Pemberton Chardonnay

Our cooler months usually see a jump in sales of red wines as we go for heavier “comfort foods,” and whether we like it or not it’s usually at the cost of some extra kilojoules both from the food and the wine.

McWilliam’s have come up with an answer to at least part of the problem: a winter red that’s a third lower in alcohol and kilojoules (and has a Weight Watchers Points Value of 1 per glass.)

It’s their McWilliam’s 2009 Balance Shiraz, a lighter- to medium-bodied drop that’s still lively and moreish with blood plum and red currant flavours, and with a touch of Shiraz spiciness and a tannin finish.

Winemaker Jim Brayne says Shiraz is our most-loved red wine style and always a popular winter choice, adding: “We believe this wine fulfils a purpose for those mindful of putting on a bit of extra weight over winter, by providing a lower alcohol and lower calorie option, whilst still being an enjoyable drop.”

Pay just $16.99 and enjoy with a beef or lamb casserole knowing that at least the wine’s a third lower in kilojoules.

One For Lunch

Western Australia’s Houghton have released their 2009 Wisdom Pemberton Chardonnay, the ninth vintage of this very popular wine that’s made from fruit hand-picked from exceptional 20 years old vines.

Striking peach and lemon citrus aromas follow through on the palate, and there’s a nice creamy complexity and fine acid finish that will tempt the taste buds to ask for more.

Pay $32 and match with seared scallops or freshly shucked oysters. And while it’s made for drinking now, another 3 to 5 years in the cellar will see it develop nicely with enhanced complexity for even further enjoyment.

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