REWARDS OF 12 YEARS HARD WORK

NSW Southern Highland label that's on the go, with this
Chardonnay a winner wherever it heads.
Enjoy it with all kinds of shellfish.

Wc26May14

David Ellis

YOU'VE possibly never heard of Cherry Tree Hill wines, but take note because here's a small maker in the Southern Highlands of NSW that's on the go – after twelve years of hard work it's now got a half-dozen top-quality varietals and blends, of which over half already have a barrel-full of rewards from major shows, regional events and even an International Challenge.

Gabi Lorentz and his family established a family farm at Sutton Forest in the Highlands after landing in Australia 30 years ago, and with fond memories of riding through his famous grandfather's vineyards back in Hungary by horse-and-cart as a boy, decided in 2000 to start growing grapes himself in this newest of Australian wine regions.

Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling were followed by Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, with highly-respected local makers Anton and Mark Balog contracted to turn this fruit into grand drops now available online – and with an interesting Wine Club that gives members up to 30% in discounts, and a Cellar Door to open in Spring.

Until then you can buy as little as a single bottle online: if you love a Chardonnay, go for the 2011 Cherry Tree Hill Diana that abounds with varietal citrus and grapefruit, almond nougat, butterscotch and a toasty elegance – and absolutely ideal with shellfish. Great value at $35 (plus $12 freight for any number from 1 to 48) with Club discounts reducing it to just $24.50. Www.cherrytreehill.com.au or phone Dave Lorentz 0414 366 000.

ONE for making the most of colder nights: share it with
friends over lamb roast with rosemary potatoes.  

ONE TO TRY: GREAT enjoyment as the nights get colder is a 2012 Chandon Heathcote Shiraz from Central Victoria, a wine with loads of berry fruit flavours and nice varietal spiciness that goes so well with a range of cooler to colder weather foods.

The Heathcote region has a reputation for Shiraz that show marvellous concentrations of flavour, and this is the time of year to enjoy it to its fullest: being medium-bodied this one makes for nice easy drinking without overpowering the foods its matches best – think about a good lamb roast with rosemary potatoes or black pepper beef. At $31 you'll find it really rewarding buying for that next dinner party.

NEED A FOOD/DRINK IDEA? Check out  http://www.vintnews.com We're also on Australian Good Food Guide http://www.agfg.com.au  in main blog.