Evans and Tate Chardonnay 2006
Margaret River, Australia $19.95 (677765)
This is from a lengthy cool vintage that was tough on reds, but magic for quality whites. The expansive nose offers up smoky, nutty, vanilla and tropical fruit aromas. Most of those aromas are from the seamlessly integrated oak regimen—1/2 new French and the other half in one-year-old barrels. There’s a pronounced and persistent attack of rich tropical fruit with sweet pineapple and ripe melon to the fore. There’s also deft balance that’s supplied by a focused citrus tang. It’s medium weight, generously textured and sports a lingering finish. Give this a go with roast turkey or chicken, savoury dressing and all the fixings. (VH)



Peter Lehmann ‘Stonewell’ Shiraz 2002
Barossa Valley, Australia $76.00 (724625)
The 2002 vintage was an accountant’s nightmare—very low yields—and a wine-lovers dream—concentrated juicy ripe fruit. Licorice, oak tar and minty notes on the aromatic nose, the rich concentrated flavours are redolent of cassis, tart pie cherry and black briary berry that are in the very firm hand of a perceptible tannin structure. It’s medium-plus bodied and quite nicely textured with exquisite balance. The finish adds another dollop of moderating acidity and dark chocolate setting this up for bar b cued back ribs slathered in a spicy tomato-based sauce, but you’ll have to wait a bit. Drink 2014 to 2024. (VH)