Translation missing: en.Gullyview Estate + Legend of the Loire Valley - Loic Mahe tasting this Saturday 3-6PM + Valenciso - Rioja: Gullyview Estate + Legend of the Loire Valley - Loic Mahe tasting this Saturday 3-6PM + Valenciso - Rioja

Valenciso are producing a refreshing take on the classic wines of Rioja. Situated in the slopes of Rioja Alta on limestone clay soils with organic farming, Valenciso is able to produce wines of remarkable freshness and energy. Most of these wines are produced in concrete tanks to allow the grapes to shine and express their wonderful terroir. Older Caucasian oak is used sparingly to provide structure to the wines rather than to overpower the natural fruit.

Every wine in this collection is fantastic and justifies their place in the lineup. The white wine displays a remarkable complexity and texture that the winemaker Diego told me serves as a much more affordable alternative white Burgundy. As for the reds, lovers of old school Bordeaux and classic Italian reds would love these.

The 10 Anos and Reserva are both incredible. The Laderas de Cabama is absolutely sensational for the price and outperforms many $100+ wines I’ve had. The Graciano is a point of difference in this line up being made from a different variety and showing a touch of tasteful oak influence. This is an exciting producer that can’t be missed. - Aaron C.

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Gullyview Estate

Introducing Gullyview Estate. This is the new project from Jono, formerly working with his brother Damon Koerner at Koerner Wines (whose wine we also love and stock as well) and his partner Megan Jenkins. Now focussing on his own project with heaps of experience under his belt, he has been able to produce some amazing wines at a fantastic price point.

Based in southern Clare Valley, these vineyards are located between an altitude of 350m-450m above sea level on Terra Rossa, red clay over limestone soils. The climate and nature of this site allows Jono to create wines with crisp acidity and elegance.

The “Albert’s” Vermentino shows beautiful fruit and floral notes with an alluring texture on the palate. The “Fruitful” Grenache is exactly that, a pristine fruity wine that still maintains complexity despite its prettiness and the “Countryside” Cabernet is a more elegant, red-fruited expression of the grape that I loved which is coming from someone who generally prefers the richer, fuller Cabs. These are releases that can’t be missed be at these prices whether you are a fan of the Koerner wines or if you just want to try something Australian, fresh and exciting. - Aaron C.

 

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Loïc Mahé

Loïc Mahé is one of the most exciting biodynamic producers hailing from the esteemed appellation of Savennières, “a sublime terroir on the banks of the Loire, south of Angers, and an unspoiled natural haven of light for the chenin blanc grape variety.”

Loïc saw the potential in the south-facing schist soils when he purchased the plot of land back in 2000 and endeavoured on a project to wring high-quality, terroir-driven wines out of them. The vineyards are beautiful and I implore everyone to check out the photos on his site as I can only fit one here for now.

Just as much as care is taken in the winery as in the vineyard with carefully selected juice from slow-pressed grapes being aged in an array of oak barrels, sandstone amphorae, demi-johns and terracotta jars. Fermented using indigenous yeasts, with no additions during vinification or élevage with only the exception of a micro-dose of volcanic sulfur, these are wines with a pristine mineral core complimented by purity of fruit.

All of the wines that will be on tasting are exceptional, from Le Petit Moulin Sparkling through to the majestic Equilibre which is aged for 20 months, 12 of which are in oak. This is a tasting not to miss. - Aaron C.