One of the leading lights of the New England wine region in New South Wales, Topper’s Mountain should be on your “cult” list for unique, well made (affordable!) wines. This release sees a blend of Chardonnay (46%), Sauvignon Blanc (30%), Gewurztraminer (16%) &  Petit Manseng (9%).   Wild yeasts fermentation. Chardonnay and Gewurztraminer were fermented in stainless steel while the Petit Manseng and Sauvignon Blanc in old French barriques for 7-9 months. Only 1850 bottles produced.

Topper’s Mountain, Bricolage Blanc, New England, 2015

Such an amalgam of aromas: ripe yellow stonefruit, yuzu, cumquat, honey, orange blossom, rosewater. Savoury smoked chicken meatiness and earthier tones of straw and quartz rocks. The palate as individual as the nose. The fruit agenda with light melon, citrus spectrum (grapefruit, Meyer lemon, mandarin) and lychee. A bracing, cool finish belying the alcohol. Will probably divide drinkers.

RRP: $30
Alc: 13.5%
Rating: 17.5/20

Wine sample courtesy of Topper’s Mountain