just chillin' MUNARI, ‘IL FRESCO’ VERMENTINO 2020 - HEATHCOTE
The warm summer days and evenings are perfect for enjoying a drop or two of these local creations. By Ashley Raeburn - Restaurant Manager - Alium Dining TURNERS CROSSING, VIOGNIER 2019 - BENDIGO A very understated varietal, originating from the Rhone Valley in France, Viognier has found its home in certain regions of Australia and is growing in popularity. The team at Turners Crossing have produced a fantastic example, proving to be very moreish. Shows an enticing mid golden colour in the glass with delectable aromas of freshly picked apricots and summer peaches with subtle hints of vanilla and spice. Rich and textural with those summer stone fruits blossoming throughout the palate with touches of orange blossom and honey leading to a rounded, long finish. Try with prawn laksa or pork belly banh mi with fresh chilli.
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Located just north of the Heathcote township, Munari Wines has certainly built an extremely impressive reputation when it comes to classical Heathcote red wines. The cellar door which is open seven days a week (bookings preferred) is situated in the former stables of a 1870’s homestead offer a unique area in which to taste the fantastic array of wines which include a Prosecco imported from Veneto and produced by another Munari family known to be distant relatives, Vermentino (read more below) and of course, excellent examples of Heathcote Shiraz and Cabernet. Vermentino – a varietal native to Sardinia and Liguria has shown it thrives in the Heathcote region. This is a fantastic representation of the classic Mediterranean wines with fresh aromas of lemon pith, lime juice showing leading into a palate that combines citrus flavours, crisp pear and hints of salinity combining beautifully with the crisp acidity and minerality. One could simply close their eyes and imagine the sun shining and the waves lapping at their feet. The refreshing and long lasting finish makes it easy to reach for another glass. Look no further than freshly peeled prawns as an excellent pairing or fried zucchini flowers stuffed with goat’s cheese.
