Wine of the Month (January - December)

2004 Everton White - Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc & Pinot Grigio
This unwooded dry white wine is made from a blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. The Chardonnay component of the blend is added for body, weight and length of palate. The Sauvignon Blanc lifts the fruit components of the wine. Pinot Grigio is added to the wine in small proportion to give structure. The three varieties work together to give a complete wine.
Being the predominant component of the blend, this current release displays youthful Chardonnay characters on the nose and palate. It is a light straw colour with lifted aromas of pear and stone fruits. The palate has flavours of stone and tropical fruits and is juicy with a refreshingly crisp finish. This wine is best enjoyed when young and fresh.

For centuries Chardonnay has been responsible for the famed wines of Burgundy and Chablis in France, and in conjunction with Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier produces the great sparkling wines of Champagne. In the last fifteen years it has been widely planted in the New World wine regions of Australia, California, New Zealand and South America. Sauvignon Blanc is a French grape variety originating in the picturesque Loire Valley in the central west of the country, where it is responsible for the aromatic, deeply flavoured dry whites. A relative newcomer to Australia, it has settled well into its new environs, especially when grown in areas enjoying cool ripening conditions. Pinot Grigio is the Italian name for the variety known as Pinot Gris in France. In France it is grown in Burgundy and Alsace and although French in origin it is more widely planted in Germany and Italy.

This easy drinking white wine would be a suitable partner to a lovely succulent roast chicken with crisp and crunchy roast potatoes and steamed greens on the side. Alternatively, a spaghetti carbonara or a roast pumpkin, fetta and pine nut pizza. It would also be suitable served with a frittata with a crunchy green salad.

Cost - $10 / bottle or $100 / case