This class was all about the grapes and blends that are killing it from down under. We tried some cool Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. Sauvignon Blanc is one of the most popular grapes coming out of New Zealand, and Pinot Noir, while still relatively new, is the “cool new kid” in town. We compared and contrasted the NZ wines with one each: a Chardonnay, a Shiraz, and a GSM (see more below) from Australia.

DOWN UNDER WINE REVIEWS

Nobilo 2010 Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough, New Zealand
14.0% alcohol
Est. Price: $19.99
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Sources say… Light straw color with delicate green hues. The nose is bursting with pineapple and nettle, underpinned by citrus zest and ripe, pink grapefruit notes. The palate is rich and full-bodied and the wine displays layered complexity of ripe tropical fruit, herbal notes and clean minerality, with a finish that is generous and persistent. Pair with red snapper.

Critics say… 89 pts., Wine Spectator

FSW students say… “B”

Yalumba 2008 Chardonnay
Eden Valley, Australia
14.0% alcohol
Est. Price: $15.99
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Sources say… The color of the wine is pale gold with green tints. The nose displays lifted citrus zest and fresh quince with subtle notes of white nougat and toasted almonds. Finely structured and seamless, the palate is all about texture. Creamy nougat, citrus and hints of white nectarine combine elegantly with the subtle nuances of French oak and a restrained citrus acidity for a lingering finish.

Critics say… 90 pts., Wine & Spirits

FSW students say…“C”

Wairau River 2008 Pinot Noir
Marlborough, New Zealand
13.5% alcohol
Est. Price: $18.99
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Sources say… The nose is lifted with aromas of cherry and wild berry fruits, shadowed by supple oak. The palate is soft and generous showing true varietal fruit flavors. Fine, ripe tannins add structure and support creating a seamless finish.

Critics say… 90 pts. and a Smart Buy, Wine Spectator

FSW students say… “B-”

Rutherglen Estates 2006 “The Reunion” GSM
Rutherglen, Victoria, Australia
14.5% alcohol
Est. Price: $16.99
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GSM = 18% Grenache, 24% Shiraz, 58% Mourvedre

Sources say… This is a blend that many New World wine regions are experimenting with. Grenache contributes alcohol, warmth and fruitness without adding tannins. Shiraz contributes color, backbone and tannins and provides the sense of balance such blend require. Mourvedre contributes elegance, structure and acidity to the blend, producing flavors of sweet plums, roasted game and hints of tobacco.

Critics say… 90 pts., International Wine Cellar

FSW students say… “B”

The Winner’s Tank 2008 Shiraz
Langhorne Creek, Australia
14.8% alcohol
Est. Price: $15.99
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Sources say… Cherry, plum and dark chocolate in the nose with sweet, dark-berry fruit and a mouth-filling texture.

Critics say… 90 pts., International Wine Cellar

FSW students say… “B”