Chris has been Bayfield’s Dee Why Store Manager since May 2017. With over 15 years in the wine industry we asked Chris what his two top wine recommendations for Spring were;
Bob Oatley’s mantra was that all wines should be a “darned good drink”, and the high quality Signature Series delivers immediate appeal, with satisfying flavours over an elegant frame. Each wine embodies the grape varietal and region in which it was grown. The Robert Oatley Grenache from McLaren Vale is a vibrant, perfumed Grenache with classic raspberry, musk and earthy notes.
Chris describes this wine as an “unwooded red that is so light on its feet, it is perfect for the impending warmer weather“.
Thanks to its spiciness, pure red fruits, fresh attributes and the myriad of different levels of depth and texture, Grenache is one of the most versatile wines to pair with food. It dances happily on the palate with grilled, stewed and braised meats like beef, veal, pork, chicken and of course game. Grenache also holds up well with less spicy styles of Asian cooking.
This Grenache is best served ever so lightly chilled. Enjoy!
Again from McLaren Vale is Hancock & Hancock Fiano, fermented in old oak with reasonable solids, blended soon after ferment fined and held cold before filtering to bottle dry, fresh and savoury.
Fiano is a white grape variety that has it’s origins in Southern Italy, but it’s quickly making a name for itself in Australia too. It’s typically a fruity, luscious and medium bodied wine that ends with a tangy zing of delightfulness. Being a very versatile drop it pairs well with both slightly acidic tomato based dishes as well as savoury cheese boards. It is equally amicable with poultry and seafood fayre.
“It’s clean and fresh but still interesting” says Chris. “It’s also a great alternative to Pinot Grigio“.
Hancock & Hancock Fiano has been crafted to relish after a cellaring term of 3 to 5 years. It marries well with pan fried King George whiting and chips to enjoy an appeasing meal with family and friends.