WTN: Sauv Blanc, Semillon and Pinots

Notes from Lester's Liquid Lunch at Sala Bistro.

Clos Marguerite Sauvignon Blanc 2009 - Marlborough, New Zealand. Passion fruit. Very aromatic. Rather full and silky. Later on, strange BO funk. Not bad.

Redgate Ullinger OFS Semillon 2003 - From Margaret River. OFS means Our Finest Selection. Greenish tinge. Very crisp, clean. A little peppery. At most, just pleasant, but then I'm not a Semillon fan.

Olssens Jackson Barry Pinot Noir 2007 - From Central Otago, NZ. Very sweet berry nose. Sweet, soft and smooth. Unmistakably New World but done very well. Polished. A little smoky. Dry finish. Excellent if you like this style. Otherwise, stay away.

Phi Pinot Noir 2006 - Lusatia Park Vineyard, Yarra Valley. I understand that De Bortoli has an interest in this winery. Sweet nose, a little leather. Elegant. The fruit is ripe but this has a very Burgundian weight and feel to it. Cherry and strawberry. Smoke. Very long finish. Beautiful wine.

[Jenise]

Jay, I think this may be the first time I've ever read a tasting note of yours and not known a single producer you listed. The Yarra pinot is especially eye-catching--Burgundian isn't a descriptor often applied to Oz pinots.

Jay, I think this may be the first time I've ever read a tasting note of yours and not known a single producer you listed. The Yarra pinot is especially eye-catching--Burgundian isn't a descriptor often applied to Oz pinots.

All of these were new to me as well! The Phi was very impressive.