Refined Whites - Chardonnay & Pinot Gris Mixed Pack
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Refined Whites - Chardonnay & Pinot Gris Mixed Pack
Refined Whites - Chardonnay & Pinot Gris Mixed Pack
google
Refined Whites - Chardonnay & Pinot Gris Mixed Pack

Refined Whites - Chardonnay & Pinot Gris Mixed Pack

$264 $382
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The Refined Whites pack features a sophisticated mix of Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, delivering a harmonious blend of flavors. From Chardonnay’s smooth, buttery richness to Pinot Gris’ fresh, fruity vibrancy, this selection showcases the elegance of these two beloved varietals. Ideal for pairing with meals or savoring on its own, this mixed pack is perfect for white wine lovers who appreciate quality and refinement in every sip.

1 x Cloud Street Chardonnay 2022 - Victoria, Australia

Winemaker "...a wine that embodies the spirit of a street worth walking down. This Chardonnay captures the essence of the region, reflecting the unique terroir and expressing its elegance."

Cloud Street are producers of outstanding value, sourcing quality fruit from well-regarded wine growing regions within the state of Victoria and fashioning it into fresh, lively and deliciously uncomplicated wine with a single varietal focus. The perfect accompaniment to sophisticated day to day living, for those who wish to drink well on a budget. Cloud Street evokes the feeling and experiences of an Australian way of life. Grab a glass and stay a while.

Chardonnay is one of the world’s most popular grapes, Chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak. Bolder, richer, full-bodied and buttery Chardonnays are made using oak and are produced in California, Burgundy, and Australia. Unoaked chardonnays such as Chablis and those produced in Chile, New Zealand, and other parts of France are leaner and often crisp and mineraly, with delicate flavors. By law, if a label says “Chablis,” it must be Chardonnay.

1 x Georges Duboeuf Chardonnay Pays D'OC Blanc IGP (Organic) 2021 - Southern France, France

84/100 - Gillian Sciaretta, Wine Spectator (2018 Vintage)
85/100 - Gillian Sciaretta, Wine Spectator (2017 Vintage)
84/100 - Wine Enthusiast (2005 Vintage)
87-88/100 - Robert Parker (2005 Vintage)
84/100 - Wine Enthusiast (2002 Vintage)

Gillian Sciaretta, Wine Spectator "Crisp and fresh notes of apple and peach are lightly spiced and marked by floral accents on the clean finish. Drink now. 5,000 cases made, 500 cases imported. — GS" (2018 Vintage)

Gillian Sciaretta,
Wine Spectator "Light- to medium-bodied and lightly spiced, with a plump profile offering apple and lemon notes. Creamy finish. Drink now. 1,500 cases made, 465 cases imported. — GS" (2017 Vintage)

Wine Enthusiast "With its distinctive enameled, flowered bottle, this sets out to be a fun party wine. It succeeds with its fresh, flowery, open fruit, enhanced by vanilla, spice and green apple flavors." (2005 Vintage)

Robert Parker "Displaying toasty, yeasty white peach and peanut aromas, the 2005 Chardonnay Vin de Pays d’Oc is an oily-textured pleasure machine. Thick, spicy, and expressive, it is riddled with apples, pears, and melon balls. It should be drunk over the next 2-3 years." (2005 Vintage)

Wine Enthusiast "Soft, light and fresh, this wine has attractive acidity as well as crisp, green flavors. There's a touch of vanilla which broadens it out. It's a solid, ready-to-drink wine." (2002 Vintage)

Winemaker Notes: A pale, golden straw colour. The nose is powerful and delicate, with intense pear, fig, pineapple and roasted hazelnut aromas and discreet hints of honey. Unctuous and lively on the palate, with hints of fig and vanilla. We recommend to taste this wine at 9-10 °C.

Les Vins Georges Duboeuf is one of the largest wine producers in France founded by the late Georges Duboeuf who was affectionately known as 'le roi du Beaujolais' (the king of Beaujolais) or sometimes pape du Beaujolais (Pope of Beaujolais). Les Vins Georges Duboeuf produces a staggering 3 million cases of wine annually. The company is most well-known for its popularization and production of Beaujolais wines. In 2018 Georges’ passed control of his company to his son Franck Duboeuf, who is considered to be one of the key specialists in Beaujolais, its terroir and its wine, and has shifted production to focus more on Beaujolais Nouveau.

Pays d'Oc is the IGP for red, white and rosé wines that are made in a large area on the southern coast of France. The catchment area for the IGP corresponds roughly to the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region – one of the largest winegrowing areas in France. The region covers all the wines that are not made under the strict laws that govern the AOC-level appellations in the regions: among them Corbières, Minervois and the Languedoc appellation itself.

The Pays d'Oc IGP is arguably the most important in France, producing the majority of the country's IGP wines. Five separate departments fall under the IGP (the Hérault, Aude, Gard, Pyrénées-Orientales and six communes in southern Lozère), which is delimited by administrative boundaries rather than geographical ones.

The Pays d'Oc area has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Most of the rainfall is compressed into spring and autumn.

The region's viticultural history dates back to Roman times but the area is also know for its progressive approach to wine production. The Charmat method of producing sparkling wine was developed by Jean-Eugène Charmat at Montpelier in the early 1900s and, as mentioned, many producers adopt a New World approach to production and marketing. Some domaines will even bring in winemakers from Australia and New Zealand.

Pays d'Oc IGP wines were previously labeled as Vin de Pays d'Oc (established in 1987), although since 2009, the VDP category has been phased out of French wine laws. It has now been replaced with Indication Géographique Protégée, a category designed as part of a standardised wine-labeling convention in the European Union.

Burgundy (Bourgogne in French) is an historic and highly respected wine region in eastern France. Burgundy wines have long had devout followers throughout the world and continue to do so today. Although Bordeaux produces about four times as much wine every year, Burgundy’s estimated 74,000 acres (30,000ha) of vineyards are considered to be of equal importance, producing some of the most exclusive wines on Earth.

The two key grape varieties of Burgundy are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, both members of the extended 'Pinot' family of grape varieties. There are others too, of course, like Aligoté, Pinot Gris, Gamay, and Sauvignon Blanc but the primary focus of Burgundy’s production is Pinot Noir for Bourgogne Rouge and Chardonnay for Bourgogne Blanc. Located in the east-central part of France, Burgundy has 6 primary wine growing areas; Chablis – “shab-lee”. Côte de Nuits – the night slope, Côte de Beaune – the slope of Beaune, Côte Chalonnaise – the Chalon slope, Mâconnais – the region of Mâcon, and parts of the Southern Beaujolais.

Chardonnay is one of the world’s most popular grapes, Chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak. Bolder, richer, full-bodied and buttery Chardonnays are made using oak and are produced in California, Burgundy, and Australia. Unoaked chardonnays such as Chablis and those produced in Chile, New Zealand, and other parts of France are leaner and often crisp and mineraly, with delicate flavors. By law, if a label says “Chablis,” it must be Chardonnay.

1 x Giulio Straccali Pinot Grigio 2021 - Tuscany, Italy

Bronze - James Suckling (2019 vintage)
Bronze - Wine Spectator (2019 vintage)
Bronze - James Suckling (2018 vintage)
Bronze - James Suckling (2017 vintage)
Bronze - James Suckling (2016 vintage)

James Suckling "..sliced-lemon and dried-apple character. Medium body. Lightly fruity," (2019 vintage)

Wine Spectator "A stony, easy-drinking white, light-bodied and juicy, with flavors of ripe pear, candied lemon peel and a hint of herb." (2019 vintage)

James Suckling "Apple and marzipan character with some bitter lemon. Medium body." (2018 vintage)

James Suckling "Preserved lemons, beeswax and green apples form the nose of this white. Medium body, high acidity and a fresh finish." (2016 vintage)

Since 1925 the Straccali wine estate in Tuscany, founded Giulio Straccali, has been in the vanguard of progressive Chianti wine producers. Giulio Straccali was an expert enologist, entrepreneur, farmer and wine producer. Known as a conservationist and protector of the traditions of Chianti wines, Straccali was an admired pioneer of the region. He was instrumental in the founding of the Black Rooster Consortium and from 1942 until his death in 1969, served as Vice President. In 1978 Italo Zingarelli, founder of the Rocca delle Macie estate in Castellina in Chianti, as part of his long-term vision for the region collaborated with the Giulio Straccali winery and later purchased the winery and vineyards from the Straccali family.

Rocca delle Macìe was established in 1973, when film producer Italo Zingarelli – of Ettore Scola’s “We All Loved Each Other So Much” fame, and also the wildly popular series of films featuring comedy duo Bud Spencer and Terence Hill (including “They Call Me Trinity” and “Trinity Is Still My Name”) – decided to realize his lifelong dream by acquiring the “Le Macìe” estate – extending across 93 hectares (230 acres) in all, of which only two were under vine – in order to create a winery in the heart of the Chianti Classico zone. The estate now extends to more than 500 hectares (1250 acres) with, in total, more than 200 (500 acres) used as vineyards and 22 (54 acres) as olive groves, subdivided across the company’s six estates: Le Macìe, Sant’Alfonso, Fizzano e le Tavolelle in the Chianti Classico Area, in addition to the Campomaccione and Casa Maria estates in the Morellino di Scansano Area (Maremma).

In Italy’s Lombardy (Lombardia) region you will find some of the most artisan, small production wines, and areas of beautiful unspoiled wine country. Nestled in Italy’s northwest, Lombardy is situated just below Switzerland and to the northeast of Piemonte. Lombardy is a significant gourmet epicenter with the highest concentration of Michelin starred restaurants in Italy. As in other regions throughout Italy, wine production was often tied to religious orders, and many monasteries and abbeys ran a wine business on the side. Today many wineries are located in converted monasteries. DOCGs in Lombardy include Franciacorta (Italy’s best bubbly), Valtellina Superiore (high altitude wines), and Sforzato di Valtellina. Some great DOCs here include Lugana and Garda, while lesser-known DOCs include Botticino (near Brescia), Moscato di Scanzo and Valcalepio (both near Bergamo), and Oltrepò Pavese (south of Pavia).

Pinot Grigio is more than just the Italian name for Pinot Gris. Although the two names refer to a single grape variety, the wine styles they represent are clearly distinct from one another.

The more refreshing Pinot Grigio style has enjoyed great success in various countries, most recently the United States, (where it is fondly nicknamed ""Greej"") and Australia. The most common descriptors of the style are ""light"", ""crisp"" and ""dry"". These characteristics are complemented by aroma notes citing lemon, green apple and blossoms.

1 x Pikes Pinot Grigio Luccio 2023 - Clare Valley, Australia

90/100 Aaron Brasher, The Real Review
Bronze - Aaron Brasher, The Real Review (2021 vintage)
Bronze - Erin Larkin, Halliday Wine Companion (2021 vintage)
94/100 Tony Love, Wine Pilot (2020 vintage)
Bronze - Amanda Yallop, The Real Review (2020 vintage)
Commended - Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion (2020 vintage)

5 Stars - Halliday Wine Companion
People Choice Award 2023

Bronze - Royal Adelaide Wine Show

Aaron Brasher, The Real Review "Lifted and fragrant aromas of pear drop, baked apple, citrus pith, white flowers and bath salts. Fresh, crunchy and super zesty on the palate. Full of tangy citrus, green apple and talc flavours. Plenty of snappy flavour here."

Aaron Brasher, The Real Review "Very pale and youthful in the glass. Aromas of citrus pith, bath salts, lime leaf and jasmine, very fresh and appealing. The flavours are all tangy lemon, sherbet, racy acidity and a lick of minerality. All very young and crunchy," (2021 vintage)

Erin Larkin, Halliday Wine Companion "Light, fresh and relatively low alcohol, this Luccio PG is fine, refreshing, honest and just a little bit chalky. Not complex, but lovely in summer." (2021 vintage)

Tony Love, Wine Pilot "Cut to the chase: this jumps right out of the glass with fabulous, fresh aromas of cut, green pears, and a waft of bath powders with a light lavender fragrance, which appears in other wines in the portfolio as well. An estate character, perhaps, or vintage? That crisp and crunchy feel follows in the drinking moment as well, like biting into a Pink Lady apple in terms of flavour and acidity, electrifying the senses, building towards mid-weight minerally textures and driving a long, mouth-watering finish. Crazy good grigio." (2020 vintage)

Amanda Yallop, The Real Review "Pale lemon-green colour. A delicate bouquet of pears and spice, quiet flavours of apple pie and ginger tea. The palate is light-bodied, clean and crisp, fine acidity and sleek mouthfeel, the finish is refreshing." (2020 vintage)

Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion "A one-dimensional wine with some spiced lemons and refreshing acidity. On a hot day, you'd have a glass or two." (2020 vintage)

Pikes is a prestigious winery in South Australia's Clare Valley, established in 1984 by Neil and Andrew Pike, whose viticultural roots go back to the late 1800s. Situated in the picturesque Clare Valley, the Estate is comprised of approximately 100 hectares of rolling slopes in Polish Hill River, an eastern sub-region of the Clare Valley.
Known for its cool climate and diverse grape varieties, Pikes showcases premium wines with distinct characters and flavors due to the unique terroir and altitude.

After an almost 20-year career with Penfolds Wines and Southcorp Wine Group, Andrew joined Pikes on a full-time basis in 1998 to oversee viticultural operations and manage the growing family business.

Pikes is particularly renowned for its high-quality Riesling and other cool-climate wines, praised for vibrant acidity, citrus flavors, and exceptional aging potential. Whilst they are best known for world-class Riesling, they have been growing Shiraz and Cabernet for 35 years and have 20 different grape varieties planted on their estate, producing a wide range of wine styles to suit all tastes.

Pikes pride themselves on producing quality handcrafted wines, that reflect vintage, variety, and region. The Pike family has been producing quality wine, beer, and aerated waters in South Australia since 1886 it is a family tradition of which they should be very proud.

Their vineyards in Clare Valley grow various grape varieties, with a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture and environmental responsibility.

Their portfolio includes Riesling, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and unique blends, all crafted with a dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Over the years, Pikes has garnered numerous awards, establishing itself as a top producer in the Clare Valley, and gaining recognition both nationally and internationally for their excellent and consistent wines.

Pinot Grigio is a popular white grape variety used to produce light, crisp, and refreshing wines. It is also known as Pinot Gris in some regions. The grape is originally from France, specifically the Burgundy region, but it is now widely grown and cultivated in many wine-producing countries around the world.

1 x Villa Vescovile Pinot Grigio 2022 - Trentino, Italy

Bronze - The Real Review (2005)

100% Pinot Grigio selected from the exclusive areas of Gardolo and Lavis

Vino "delicate aroma of sweet fruit amiably accompanied by toasted almond notes. In the mouth it is fresh, dry and pleasantly soft. Ideal to accompany fish dishes, also perfect in combination with white meats."

Bob Campbell, The Real Review "Good food wine.... very Italian!.....pleasant slightly nutty flavours. Good balance and a fairly lingering finish." (2005 vintage)

Winemakers notes "Straw yellow, the nose is delicate and fresh fruit aromas with slight hints of almonds. The palate is dry, smooth and pleasantly crisp."

Villa Vescovile wines are sourced from prestigous vineyards of the Trentino area located just north of Trento. Overseen by the famous winemakers of Rocca delle Macie, Villa Vescovile wines are produced using the acclaimed winemaking traditions of South Tyrol. The grapes are planted on the sloping terrain of the area and are cultivated using the pergola system, on terraced soils. The grapes produce two red wines and four white wines, all of which are worthy examples of character and tipicity. Villa Vescovile wines encompass the important denominations of origin of the region. Known for their balance of fruit, they epitomise what makes North Italian cool climate wines famous.

Villa Vescovile is a partnership with Rocca delle Macìe which was established in 1973, when film producer Italo Zingarelli – of Ettore Scola’s “We All Loved Each Other So Much” fame, and also the wildly popular series of films featuring comedy duo Bud Spencer and Terence Hill (including “They Call Me Trinity” and “Trinity Is Still My Name”) – decided to realize his lifelong dream by acquiring the “Le Macìe” estate – extending across 93 hectares (230 acres) in all, of which only two were under vine – in order to create a winery in the heart of the Chianti Classico zone. The estate now extends to more than 500 hectares (1250 acres) with, in total, more than 200 (500 acres) used as vineyards and 22 (54 acres) as olive groves, subdivided across the company’s six estates: Le Macìe, Sant’Alfonso, Fizzano e le Tavolelle in the Chianti Classico Area, in addition to the Campomaccione and Casa Maria estates in the Morellino di Scansano Area (Maremma).

Wine Enthusists Magazine's 'Wine Region of the Year' in 2020, Trentino is known for its. world-class wines. About an hour’s drive from Verona and surrounded by the majestic Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s one of the most beautiful areas in Italy country.

Celebrated for its pristine ski slopes, breathtaking hiking trails, cycling routes and dramatic scenery, Trentino is also one of the most dynamic, multifaceted wine-producing areas in Italy. It makes quality, terroir-driven wines from both international and regional grapes, as well as one of the country’s most renowned bottle-fermented sparklers.

Counting 25,232 acres of vines, the province accounts for 1.6% of the nation’s vineyard area. White grapes dominate its wine scene. Pinot Grigio is the leader, comprising 34% of overall grape production followed by Chardonnay at 26% and Müller-Thurgau at 10%. Other white varieties include Sauvignon, Pinot Bianco and Nosiola. For red wine production, Teroldego, Merlot, Marzemino and Pinot Nero are the main grapes followed by Schiava.

Pinot Grigio is more than just the Italian name for Pinot Gris. Although the two names refer to a single grape variety, the wine styles they represent are clearly distinct from one another.

The more refreshing Pinot Grigio style has enjoyed great success in various countries, most recently the United States, (where it is fondly nicknamed ""Greej"") and Australia. The most common descriptors of the style are ""light"", ""crisp"" and ""dry"". These characteristics are complemented by aroma notes citing lemon, green apple and blossoms.

The Grigio style is achieved by harvesting the grapes relatively early, in an attempt to retain as much fresh acidity as possible; the variety is naturally quite low in acidity. To retain freshness and ""zing"", fermentation and storage typically take place in stainless-steel tanks.

1 x Neudorf Tiritiri Chardonnay 2019 ~ Nelson, New Zealand

93/100 Bob Campbell 
93/100 James Suckling
91/100 Julie Sheppard
91/100 Amy Wilslocki
90/100 Huon Hooke

Bob Campbell "New entry-level chardonnay label from three vineyards in the Upper Moutere. Bright, tangy chardonnay with lemon tart, oyster-shell, nectarine, root ginger and spicy oak flavours. Accessible now but no rush."

James Suckling "Aromas of apple pie and some smoke and mineral undertones follow through to a medium to full body with a phenolic-framed mid-palate and a fresh, vivid finish. A little shy, but lots going on here. Drink or hold. Screw cap."

Julie Sheppard "A newcomer to Neudorf's portfolio, made with grapes sourced from three sites in the Moutere Hills and wild-fermented in barrel. Aromas of waxy citrus, with breezy freshness. The textured, silky palate combines flinty mineral notes with citrus, apple and a touch of peach, alongside vibrant acidity. A good match for creamy fish dishes."

Amy Wilslocki "It has a lovely wild ferment character, with silky, creamy peach and apple fruit. It's textural, fresh and balanced, and will be a hit with lovers of both Old and New World Chardonnay...One of the Society's 2022 Wine Champions, this delicious, Burgundian-style Chardonnay is made by Neudorf, a top name in the Nelson region, from three sites. This has seen whole-bunch fermentation, and 10 months ageing on lees in medium-toast French oak (13% new)"

Huon Hooke "Light to mid-straw-yellow colour, with a smoky, fusty, dried flower, pot-pourri bouquet and a sulfury waft. In the mouth, it’s rich and has a slight tickle of sweetness, with amplitude and generosity, very good drinkability and plenty of appeal"

The Winemaker "A new addition to the Neudorf portfolio.

Organic wines are made from grapes grown without pesticides, following strict organic standards. Organic wines are produced in vineyards that do not use synthetic chemicals. Certified organic wines have been certified by BioGro 5438 certification in New Zealand. 

The inaugural Tiritiri Chardonnay comes from three sites within the Moutere Hills, including the young vines of Neudorf’s own Rosie’s Block.

Drinking this wine suggests to me what it might be like to surf those waves off Raglan.

On the nose - ocean sea spray, waxy native florals entwined with white peaches.

These flavours are brought though to the palate along with notes of fennel & yuzu pith. The wine flirts with an exquisite balance of minerality & precision. There is a refreshing surge of acidity that is held together brilliantly with a framework of oak & fruit concentration - all riding the wave in sync.

A Chardonnay to be gently chilled, generously shared & enjoyed with anything that takes you back to the seaside in summer, maybe for a surf, a cast, or a wander."

Neudorf Vineyards is arguably the most well-known producer in New Zealand's famous Nelson wine-growing region. Neudorf was founded in 1978 by Tim and Judy Finn, who experimented with what was then unknown wine territory, building a thriving winery that is now famous for its wines made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. The Finns were pioneers of organic farming in New Zealand and their wine-making philosophy is one of minimal intervention.

Tiritiri is a new brand from Neudorf which collaborates with named, hand-selected growers in the Nelson region to make excellent wines. All wines are created from single-vineyard which are committed to low cropping.

Nelson is a small, wine region at the northern end of New Zealand's South Island. Surrounded on three sides by mountains, it enjoys a unique mesoclimate that is perfect for aromatic grape varieties. Wines made from Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer are considered to be some of the best in New Zealand.

Chardonnay is one of the world’s most popular grapes, Chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak. Bolder, richer, full-bodied and buttery Chardonnays are made using oak and are produced in California, Burgundy, and Australia. Unoaked chardonnays such as Chablis and those produced in Chile, New Zealand, and other parts of France are leaner and often crisp and mineraly, with delicate flavors. By law, if a label says “Chablis,” it must be Chardonnay.

The Refined Whites pack features a sophisticated mix of Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, delivering a harmonious blend of flavors. From Chardonnay’s smooth, buttery richness to Pinot Gris’ fresh, fruity vibrancy, this selection showcases the elegance of these two beloved varietals. Ideal for pairing with meals or savoring on its own, this mixed pack is perfect for white wine lovers who appreciate quality and refinement in every sip.

1 x Cloud Street Chardonnay 2022 - Victoria, Australia

Winemaker "...a wine that embodies the spirit of a street worth walking down. This Chardonnay captures the essence of the region, reflecting the unique terroir and expressing its elegance."

Cloud Street are producers of outstanding value, sourcing quality fruit from well-regarded wine growing regions within the state of Victoria and fashioning it into fresh, lively and deliciously uncomplicated wine with a single varietal focus. The perfect accompaniment to sophisticated day to day living, for those who wish to drink well on a budget. Cloud Street evokes the feeling and experiences of an Australian way of life. Grab a glass and stay a while.

Chardonnay is one of the world’s most popular grapes, Chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak. Bolder, richer, full-bodied and buttery Chardonnays are made using oak and are produced in California, Burgundy, and Australia. Unoaked chardonnays such as Chablis and those produced in Chile, New Zealand, and other parts of France are leaner and often crisp and mineraly, with delicate flavors. By law, if a label says “Chablis,” it must be Chardonnay.

1 x Georges Duboeuf Chardonnay Pays D'OC Blanc IGP (Organic) 2021 - Southern France, France

84/100 - Gillian Sciaretta, Wine Spectator (2018 Vintage)
85/100 - Gillian Sciaretta, Wine Spectator (2017 Vintage)
84/100 - Wine Enthusiast (2005 Vintage)
87-88/100 - Robert Parker (2005 Vintage)
84/100 - Wine Enthusiast (2002 Vintage)

Gillian Sciaretta, Wine Spectator "Crisp and fresh notes of apple and peach are lightly spiced and marked by floral accents on the clean finish. Drink now. 5,000 cases made, 500 cases imported. — GS" (2018 Vintage)

Gillian Sciaretta,
Wine Spectator "Light- to medium-bodied and lightly spiced, with a plump profile offering apple and lemon notes. Creamy finish. Drink now. 1,500 cases made, 465 cases imported. — GS" (2017 Vintage)

Wine Enthusiast "With its distinctive enameled, flowered bottle, this sets out to be a fun party wine. It succeeds with its fresh, flowery, open fruit, enhanced by vanilla, spice and green apple flavors." (2005 Vintage)

Robert Parker "Displaying toasty, yeasty white peach and peanut aromas, the 2005 Chardonnay Vin de Pays d’Oc is an oily-textured pleasure machine. Thick, spicy, and expressive, it is riddled with apples, pears, and melon balls. It should be drunk over the next 2-3 years." (2005 Vintage)

Wine Enthusiast "Soft, light and fresh, this wine has attractive acidity as well as crisp, green flavors. There's a touch of vanilla which broadens it out. It's a solid, ready-to-drink wine." (2002 Vintage)

Winemaker Notes: A pale, golden straw colour. The nose is powerful and delicate, with intense pear, fig, pineapple and roasted hazelnut aromas and discreet hints of honey. Unctuous and lively on the palate, with hints of fig and vanilla. We recommend to taste this wine at 9-10 °C.

Les Vins Georges Duboeuf is one of the largest wine producers in France founded by the late Georges Duboeuf who was affectionately known as 'le roi du Beaujolais' (the king of Beaujolais) or sometimes pape du Beaujolais (Pope of Beaujolais). Les Vins Georges Duboeuf produces a staggering 3 million cases of wine annually. The company is most well-known for its popularization and production of Beaujolais wines. In 2018 Georges’ passed control of his company to his son Franck Duboeuf, who is considered to be one of the key specialists in Beaujolais, its terroir and its wine, and has shifted production to focus more on Beaujolais Nouveau.

Pays d'Oc is the IGP for red, white and rosé wines that are made in a large area on the southern coast of France. The catchment area for the IGP corresponds roughly to the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region – one of the largest winegrowing areas in France. The region covers all the wines that are not made under the strict laws that govern the AOC-level appellations in the regions: among them Corbières, Minervois and the Languedoc appellation itself.

The Pays d'Oc IGP is arguably the most important in France, producing the majority of the country's IGP wines. Five separate departments fall under the IGP (the Hérault, Aude, Gard, Pyrénées-Orientales and six communes in southern Lozère), which is delimited by administrative boundaries rather than geographical ones.

The Pays d'Oc area has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Most of the rainfall is compressed into spring and autumn.

The region's viticultural history dates back to Roman times but the area is also know for its progressive approach to wine production. The Charmat method of producing sparkling wine was developed by Jean-Eugène Charmat at Montpelier in the early 1900s and, as mentioned, many producers adopt a New World approach to production and marketing. Some domaines will even bring in winemakers from Australia and New Zealand.

Pays d'Oc IGP wines were previously labeled as Vin de Pays d'Oc (established in 1987), although since 2009, the VDP category has been phased out of French wine laws. It has now been replaced with Indication Géographique Protégée, a category designed as part of a standardised wine-labeling convention in the European Union.

Burgundy (Bourgogne in French) is an historic and highly respected wine region in eastern France. Burgundy wines have long had devout followers throughout the world and continue to do so today. Although Bordeaux produces about four times as much wine every year, Burgundy’s estimated 74,000 acres (30,000ha) of vineyards are considered to be of equal importance, producing some of the most exclusive wines on Earth.

The two key grape varieties of Burgundy are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, both members of the extended 'Pinot' family of grape varieties. There are others too, of course, like Aligoté, Pinot Gris, Gamay, and Sauvignon Blanc but the primary focus of Burgundy’s production is Pinot Noir for Bourgogne Rouge and Chardonnay for Bourgogne Blanc. Located in the east-central part of France, Burgundy has 6 primary wine growing areas; Chablis – “shab-lee”. Côte de Nuits – the night slope, Côte de Beaune – the slope of Beaune, Côte Chalonnaise – the Chalon slope, Mâconnais – the region of Mâcon, and parts of the Southern Beaujolais.

Chardonnay is one of the world’s most popular grapes, Chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak. Bolder, richer, full-bodied and buttery Chardonnays are made using oak and are produced in California, Burgundy, and Australia. Unoaked chardonnays such as Chablis and those produced in Chile, New Zealand, and other parts of France are leaner and often crisp and mineraly, with delicate flavors. By law, if a label says “Chablis,” it must be Chardonnay.

1 x Giulio Straccali Pinot Grigio 2021 - Tuscany, Italy

Bronze - James Suckling (2019 vintage)
Bronze - Wine Spectator (2019 vintage)
Bronze - James Suckling (2018 vintage)
Bronze - James Suckling (2017 vintage)
Bronze - James Suckling (2016 vintage)

James Suckling "..sliced-lemon and dried-apple character. Medium body. Lightly fruity," (2019 vintage)

Wine Spectator "A stony, easy-drinking white, light-bodied and juicy, with flavors of ripe pear, candied lemon peel and a hint of herb." (2019 vintage)

James Suckling "Apple and marzipan character with some bitter lemon. Medium body." (2018 vintage)

James Suckling "Preserved lemons, beeswax and green apples form the nose of this white. Medium body, high acidity and a fresh finish." (2016 vintage)

Since 1925 the Straccali wine estate in Tuscany, founded Giulio Straccali, has been in the vanguard of progressive Chianti wine producers. Giulio Straccali was an expert enologist, entrepreneur, farmer and wine producer. Known as a conservationist and protector of the traditions of Chianti wines, Straccali was an admired pioneer of the region. He was instrumental in the founding of the Black Rooster Consortium and from 1942 until his death in 1969, served as Vice President. In 1978 Italo Zingarelli, founder of the Rocca delle Macie estate in Castellina in Chianti, as part of his long-term vision for the region collaborated with the Giulio Straccali winery and later purchased the winery and vineyards from the Straccali family.

Rocca delle Macìe was established in 1973, when film producer Italo Zingarelli – of Ettore Scola’s “We All Loved Each Other So Much” fame, and also the wildly popular series of films featuring comedy duo Bud Spencer and Terence Hill (including “They Call Me Trinity” and “Trinity Is Still My Name”) – decided to realize his lifelong dream by acquiring the “Le Macìe” estate – extending across 93 hectares (230 acres) in all, of which only two were under vine – in order to create a winery in the heart of the Chianti Classico zone. The estate now extends to more than 500 hectares (1250 acres) with, in total, more than 200 (500 acres) used as vineyards and 22 (54 acres) as olive groves, subdivided across the company’s six estates: Le Macìe, Sant’Alfonso, Fizzano e le Tavolelle in the Chianti Classico Area, in addition to the Campomaccione and Casa Maria estates in the Morellino di Scansano Area (Maremma).

In Italy’s Lombardy (Lombardia) region you will find some of the most artisan, small production wines, and areas of beautiful unspoiled wine country. Nestled in Italy’s northwest, Lombardy is situated just below Switzerland and to the northeast of Piemonte. Lombardy is a significant gourmet epicenter with the highest concentration of Michelin starred restaurants in Italy. As in other regions throughout Italy, wine production was often tied to religious orders, and many monasteries and abbeys ran a wine business on the side. Today many wineries are located in converted monasteries. DOCGs in Lombardy include Franciacorta (Italy’s best bubbly), Valtellina Superiore (high altitude wines), and Sforzato di Valtellina. Some great DOCs here include Lugana and Garda, while lesser-known DOCs include Botticino (near Brescia), Moscato di Scanzo and Valcalepio (both near Bergamo), and Oltrepò Pavese (south of Pavia).

Pinot Grigio is more than just the Italian name for Pinot Gris. Although the two names refer to a single grape variety, the wine styles they represent are clearly distinct from one another.

The more refreshing Pinot Grigio style has enjoyed great success in various countries, most recently the United States, (where it is fondly nicknamed ""Greej"") and Australia. The most common descriptors of the style are ""light"", ""crisp"" and ""dry"". These characteristics are complemented by aroma notes citing lemon, green apple and blossoms.

1 x Pikes Pinot Grigio Luccio 2023 - Clare Valley, Australia

90/100 Aaron Brasher, The Real Review
Bronze - Aaron Brasher, The Real Review (2021 vintage)
Bronze - Erin Larkin, Halliday Wine Companion (2021 vintage)
94/100 Tony Love, Wine Pilot (2020 vintage)
Bronze - Amanda Yallop, The Real Review (2020 vintage)
Commended - Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion (2020 vintage)

5 Stars - Halliday Wine Companion
People Choice Award 2023

Bronze - Royal Adelaide Wine Show

Aaron Brasher, The Real Review "Lifted and fragrant aromas of pear drop, baked apple, citrus pith, white flowers and bath salts. Fresh, crunchy and super zesty on the palate. Full of tangy citrus, green apple and talc flavours. Plenty of snappy flavour here."

Aaron Brasher, The Real Review "Very pale and youthful in the glass. Aromas of citrus pith, bath salts, lime leaf and jasmine, very fresh and appealing. The flavours are all tangy lemon, sherbet, racy acidity and a lick of minerality. All very young and crunchy," (2021 vintage)

Erin Larkin, Halliday Wine Companion "Light, fresh and relatively low alcohol, this Luccio PG is fine, refreshing, honest and just a little bit chalky. Not complex, but lovely in summer." (2021 vintage)

Tony Love, Wine Pilot "Cut to the chase: this jumps right out of the glass with fabulous, fresh aromas of cut, green pears, and a waft of bath powders with a light lavender fragrance, which appears in other wines in the portfolio as well. An estate character, perhaps, or vintage? That crisp and crunchy feel follows in the drinking moment as well, like biting into a Pink Lady apple in terms of flavour and acidity, electrifying the senses, building towards mid-weight minerally textures and driving a long, mouth-watering finish. Crazy good grigio." (2020 vintage)

Amanda Yallop, The Real Review "Pale lemon-green colour. A delicate bouquet of pears and spice, quiet flavours of apple pie and ginger tea. The palate is light-bodied, clean and crisp, fine acidity and sleek mouthfeel, the finish is refreshing." (2020 vintage)

Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion "A one-dimensional wine with some spiced lemons and refreshing acidity. On a hot day, you'd have a glass or two." (2020 vintage)

Pikes is a prestigious winery in South Australia's Clare Valley, established in 1984 by Neil and Andrew Pike, whose viticultural roots go back to the late 1800s. Situated in the picturesque Clare Valley, the Estate is comprised of approximately 100 hectares of rolling slopes in Polish Hill River, an eastern sub-region of the Clare Valley.
Known for its cool climate and diverse grape varieties, Pikes showcases premium wines with distinct characters and flavors due to the unique terroir and altitude.

After an almost 20-year career with Penfolds Wines and Southcorp Wine Group, Andrew joined Pikes on a full-time basis in 1998 to oversee viticultural operations and manage the growing family business.

Pikes is particularly renowned for its high-quality Riesling and other cool-climate wines, praised for vibrant acidity, citrus flavors, and exceptional aging potential. Whilst they are best known for world-class Riesling, they have been growing Shiraz and Cabernet for 35 years and have 20 different grape varieties planted on their estate, producing a wide range of wine styles to suit all tastes.

Pikes pride themselves on producing quality handcrafted wines, that reflect vintage, variety, and region. The Pike family has been producing quality wine, beer, and aerated waters in South Australia since 1886 it is a family tradition of which they should be very proud.

Their vineyards in Clare Valley grow various grape varieties, with a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture and environmental responsibility.

Their portfolio includes Riesling, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and unique blends, all crafted with a dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Over the years, Pikes has garnered numerous awards, establishing itself as a top producer in the Clare Valley, and gaining recognition both nationally and internationally for their excellent and consistent wines.

Pinot Grigio is a popular white grape variety used to produce light, crisp, and refreshing wines. It is also known as Pinot Gris in some regions. The grape is originally from France, specifically the Burgundy region, but it is now widely grown and cultivated in many wine-producing countries around the world.

1 x Villa Vescovile Pinot Grigio 2022 - Trentino, Italy

Bronze - The Real Review (2005)

100% Pinot Grigio selected from the exclusive areas of Gardolo and Lavis

Vino "delicate aroma of sweet fruit amiably accompanied by toasted almond notes. In the mouth it is fresh, dry and pleasantly soft. Ideal to accompany fish dishes, also perfect in combination with white meats."

Bob Campbell, The Real Review "Good food wine.... very Italian!.....pleasant slightly nutty flavours. Good balance and a fairly lingering finish." (2005 vintage)

Winemakers notes "Straw yellow, the nose is delicate and fresh fruit aromas with slight hints of almonds. The palate is dry, smooth and pleasantly crisp."

Villa Vescovile wines are sourced from prestigous vineyards of the Trentino area located just north of Trento. Overseen by the famous winemakers of Rocca delle Macie, Villa Vescovile wines are produced using the acclaimed winemaking traditions of South Tyrol. The grapes are planted on the sloping terrain of the area and are cultivated using the pergola system, on terraced soils. The grapes produce two red wines and four white wines, all of which are worthy examples of character and tipicity. Villa Vescovile wines encompass the important denominations of origin of the region. Known for their balance of fruit, they epitomise what makes North Italian cool climate wines famous.

Villa Vescovile is a partnership with Rocca delle Macìe which was established in 1973, when film producer Italo Zingarelli – of Ettore Scola’s “We All Loved Each Other So Much” fame, and also the wildly popular series of films featuring comedy duo Bud Spencer and Terence Hill (including “They Call Me Trinity” and “Trinity Is Still My Name”) – decided to realize his lifelong dream by acquiring the “Le Macìe” estate – extending across 93 hectares (230 acres) in all, of which only two were under vine – in order to create a winery in the heart of the Chianti Classico zone. The estate now extends to more than 500 hectares (1250 acres) with, in total, more than 200 (500 acres) used as vineyards and 22 (54 acres) as olive groves, subdivided across the company’s six estates: Le Macìe, Sant’Alfonso, Fizzano e le Tavolelle in the Chianti Classico Area, in addition to the Campomaccione and Casa Maria estates in the Morellino di Scansano Area (Maremma).

Wine Enthusists Magazine's 'Wine Region of the Year' in 2020, Trentino is known for its. world-class wines. About an hour’s drive from Verona and surrounded by the majestic Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s one of the most beautiful areas in Italy country.

Celebrated for its pristine ski slopes, breathtaking hiking trails, cycling routes and dramatic scenery, Trentino is also one of the most dynamic, multifaceted wine-producing areas in Italy. It makes quality, terroir-driven wines from both international and regional grapes, as well as one of the country’s most renowned bottle-fermented sparklers.

Counting 25,232 acres of vines, the province accounts for 1.6% of the nation’s vineyard area. White grapes dominate its wine scene. Pinot Grigio is the leader, comprising 34% of overall grape production followed by Chardonnay at 26% and Müller-Thurgau at 10%. Other white varieties include Sauvignon, Pinot Bianco and Nosiola. For red wine production, Teroldego, Merlot, Marzemino and Pinot Nero are the main grapes followed by Schiava.

Pinot Grigio is more than just the Italian name for Pinot Gris. Although the two names refer to a single grape variety, the wine styles they represent are clearly distinct from one another.

The more refreshing Pinot Grigio style has enjoyed great success in various countries, most recently the United States, (where it is fondly nicknamed ""Greej"") and Australia. The most common descriptors of the style are ""light"", ""crisp"" and ""dry"". These characteristics are complemented by aroma notes citing lemon, green apple and blossoms.

The Grigio style is achieved by harvesting the grapes relatively early, in an attempt to retain as much fresh acidity as possible; the variety is naturally quite low in acidity. To retain freshness and ""zing"", fermentation and storage typically take place in stainless-steel tanks.

1 x Neudorf Tiritiri Chardonnay 2019 ~ Nelson, New Zealand

93/100 Bob Campbell 
93/100 James Suckling
91/100 Julie Sheppard
91/100 Amy Wilslocki
90/100 Huon Hooke

Bob Campbell "New entry-level chardonnay label from three vineyards in the Upper Moutere. Bright, tangy chardonnay with lemon tart, oyster-shell, nectarine, root ginger and spicy oak flavours. Accessible now but no rush."

James Suckling "Aromas of apple pie and some smoke and mineral undertones follow through to a medium to full body with a phenolic-framed mid-palate and a fresh, vivid finish. A little shy, but lots going on here. Drink or hold. Screw cap."

Julie Sheppard "A newcomer to Neudorf's portfolio, made with grapes sourced from three sites in the Moutere Hills and wild-fermented in barrel. Aromas of waxy citrus, with breezy freshness. The textured, silky palate combines flinty mineral notes with citrus, apple and a touch of peach, alongside vibrant acidity. A good match for creamy fish dishes."

Amy Wilslocki "It has a lovely wild ferment character, with silky, creamy peach and apple fruit. It's textural, fresh and balanced, and will be a hit with lovers of both Old and New World Chardonnay...One of the Society's 2022 Wine Champions, this delicious, Burgundian-style Chardonnay is made by Neudorf, a top name in the Nelson region, from three sites. This has seen whole-bunch fermentation, and 10 months ageing on lees in medium-toast French oak (13% new)"

Huon Hooke "Light to mid-straw-yellow colour, with a smoky, fusty, dried flower, pot-pourri bouquet and a sulfury waft. In the mouth, it’s rich and has a slight tickle of sweetness, with amplitude and generosity, very good drinkability and plenty of appeal"

The Winemaker "A new addition to the Neudorf portfolio.

Organic wines are made from grapes grown without pesticides, following strict organic standards. Organic wines are produced in vineyards that do not use synthetic chemicals. Certified organic wines have been certified by BioGro 5438 certification in New Zealand. 

The inaugural Tiritiri Chardonnay comes from three sites within the Moutere Hills, including the young vines of Neudorf’s own Rosie’s Block.

Drinking this wine suggests to me what it might be like to surf those waves off Raglan.

On the nose - ocean sea spray, waxy native florals entwined with white peaches.

These flavours are brought though to the palate along with notes of fennel & yuzu pith. The wine flirts with an exquisite balance of minerality & precision. There is a refreshing surge of acidity that is held together brilliantly with a framework of oak & fruit concentration - all riding the wave in sync.

A Chardonnay to be gently chilled, generously shared & enjoyed with anything that takes you back to the seaside in summer, maybe for a surf, a cast, or a wander."

Neudorf Vineyards is arguably the most well-known producer in New Zealand's famous Nelson wine-growing region. Neudorf was founded in 1978 by Tim and Judy Finn, who experimented with what was then unknown wine territory, building a thriving winery that is now famous for its wines made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. The Finns were pioneers of organic farming in New Zealand and their wine-making philosophy is one of minimal intervention.

Tiritiri is a new brand from Neudorf which collaborates with named, hand-selected growers in the Nelson region to make excellent wines. All wines are created from single-vineyard which are committed to low cropping.

Nelson is a small, wine region at the northern end of New Zealand's South Island. Surrounded on three sides by mountains, it enjoys a unique mesoclimate that is perfect for aromatic grape varieties. Wines made from Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer are considered to be some of the best in New Zealand.

Chardonnay is one of the world’s most popular grapes, Chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak. Bolder, richer, full-bodied and buttery Chardonnays are made using oak and are produced in California, Burgundy, and Australia. Unoaked chardonnays such as Chablis and those produced in Chile, New Zealand, and other parts of France are leaner and often crisp and mineraly, with delicate flavors. By law, if a label says “Chablis,” it must be Chardonnay.