Hope Estate Family Vineyards of Hunter Valley in southwest Australia has announced three new bottles.
The Ripper Shiraz 2013 is 100% Shiraz, aged in 50% French oak and 50% America. The fermentation and maturation lasts 12-15 months. Blackberry and darn cherry are on the nose, the company reports, along with notes of licorice, mocha and cedar oak. Berry fruits, spice, black olives and oak are in the flavor, making this wine a match for red meat, or white meat in a rich sauce. 14.6% ABV. Suggested retail price: $17.99 per 750-ml. bottle.
The Basalt Block Shiraz 2014 is 100% Shiraz, aged in new and old French hogsheads for 13 months. The aroma is pepper and spice, the company reports, with notes of blackberry and cedar oak. On the palate are berry fruits, spicy plums and an underlying earthiness. This medium-bodied wine goes well with delicate lamb and beef dishes, plus Italian cuisine. 13% ABV. Suggested retail price: $14.99 per 750-ml. bottle.
The Mountain Wash Chardonnay 2014 is 100% Chardonnay aged 10 months in new and old French hogsheads. Aromas of pear, pear and ripe citrus come off the nose, the company reports, with notes of light vanilla and toast oak. Flavors include ripe stone fruits and oak. This medium-bodied wine pours well alongside most chicken, pasta and veal dishes. 13% ABV. Suggested retail price: $14.99 per 750-ml. bottle.
Hope Estate Family Vineyards is imported into the U.S. by Winesellers, Ltd.
