Another low-yielding harvest for Grosset, 2021 is highly promising. In the whites, both the off-dry Alea Riesling and Apiana Fiano continue to fly under the radar despite their fine form and rise in quality over the years, and the task of choosing the top Riesling in Jeff's offerings is fast becoming a futile one with both Springvale and Polish Hill intense, crisp and very long - the Springvale perhaps a bit softer, with beautiful florals and saltiness, and the Polish Hill with that power and complexity that we expect from the wine.
Lastly, we have great news for Cabernet lovers. We are VERY excited about the stunningly good 2018 Gaia (which surely rank as one of his finest) that is very similar in style to the silky and effortless 2010, a wine Matthew Jukes compared to a fine vintage of Vieux Chateau Certan!
As with the 2020s, this year's yields were very low, so act quickly! Wines will be available for collection or dispatch on Wednesday 1st of September!
- Jeffrey's Notes on the Vintage -
These 2021 whites have both density of flavour and structure. I think they are beautiful wines to drink now or to age. The palates are firm and concentrated certainly compared to 2020 whites which were a little softer. For us, riesling yields in 2021 were low – up only slightly compared to 2020 – as a result of recent drought years. Our vines should produce a more ‘normal’ crop next year. I’m so glad that we are 100% committed to organic and biodynamic principles because the vineyards have never been healthier and the wines, well I believe they taste fresher and purer – the quality is better.
2021 Alea Off-Dry Riesling - $46 ; $42
There’s a subtlety about this vintage of Grosset Alea: delicate floral perfumes, lemon blossom, juicy lemon pith, a pure expression of the variety that balances intense limey notes with plush lemony flavours and impeccable layering. With the vineyard now fully mature this vintage completes the refinement of the ‘Alea’ style: a very engaging and beautiful wine.
Certified organic and biodynamic (ACO) & Unfined- vegan and vegetarian friendly
It’s the incredible, almost riotous, aromatics that set this Clare Valley fiano apart: lemongrass, almond blossom, some peach, even the hint of raw honey. There’s a concentration of flavour that shows itself in the wine’s mid-palate intensity and on its crisp, dry, cleansing finish. Expressive and balanced but in tiny quantities, supply of ‘Apiana’ will remain miniscule for the foreseeable future.
Certified organic and biodynamic (ACO) & Unfined – vegan and vegetarian friendly
2021 Springvale Riesling - $52 ; $47
The great 2021 vintage expresses itself at Springvale as subtle lemon and lime citrus aromas, a touch of lavender and spring herbs. There’s an intensity on the palate, which is fresh, pristine and powerful, a taut structure which defines the wine and helps it build layers of citrus flavours. The finish is ultra-dry, long and precise. While delicious when young, it will benefit from more time. Drink now or cellar for 20 years.
Certified organic and biodynamic (ACO) & Unfined – vegan and vegetarian friendly
2021 Polish Hill Riesling - $75 ; $68 Available in Magnum too at $150!
A spectacular vintage with layer upon layer of powerful lime juice aromatics against a backdrop of enticing florals. The palate is intense with lime pith flavours, weight, power and a crisp, ultra-dry finish that lingers. It has the structure and intensity of flavour to become one of the great vintages.
Certified organic and biodynamic (ACO) & Unfined – vegan and vegetarian friendly
2018 Gaia Cabernet Blend - $95 ; $85
Brooding briary, brambly, black cherry and blackcurrant aromas and flavours. Ripe, lively and fine, substantial yet restrained tannins; a wine characterised by balance and finesse…
The 2018 vintage has been another impressive one for ‘Gaia’: while it has the power, density of flavour, and structure of cabernet, it has the plush texture and the approachability of the best examples of the variety. Of course, it will soften and flesh out with good cellaring.
Unfined – suitable for vegans and vegetarians
To purchase any of these wines please use the links above phone us on (07) 3252 1117, or email us at sales@thewineemporium.com.au - Prices valid until Monday 6th of September 2021 or until stock runs out.