Pinot is usually more soft and subtle than my palate demands, John. I like something really 'ballsy' in a red, but not with a nose that is reminiscent of smouldering wet mattresses.
Absolutely, John. I had some Pinot last year that was closer to a cabernet in taste... and it was a quite drinkable 'barbie' wine - only $7.50 per bottle direct from the vineyard.
My stock for this summer is a hearty shiraz from Echuca (northern Victoria). Three dozen bottles (for a start) @ $80 per dozen - terrific value for a brassy 'quaffing' wine!
John: Summer starts officially on December 1. Well.... as far as the calendar goes, anyway... 'Hughie' often lags behind!
Wints: This is one of the few areas where we are genuinely blessed. You can buy really good quality 'name' brand wines for $8 to 12 per bottle in discount grog shops. Ramp it up to $20 to $25 and you're getting excellent wines that can comfortably be put down for 7 to 10 years. It's an incredibly competetive market here with lots of small players producing great wines at close to bargain prices. The major players have to price their products accordingly.