This Weeks Pick of the Bunch- World Class Riesling and Malbec.

Pewsey Vale 1961 Block Riesling 2020- with elegance and finesse!

This is a single vineyard release sourced from their 1961 Block, and, you guessed it, planted in 1961. This block is home to the oldest vines the winery owns, and I suspect the oldest Riesling vines in Clare Valley, given the valley was the site of Riesling plantings 100 years earlier. First released in 2017 this is an impressive wine.

Delightful enticing aromas of freshly squeezed limes and Myer Lemons with just a hint of Orange Blossom.

The palate has a smooth inviting mouthfeel, especially impressive given the level of acidity. Almost seamless layers of limes, Myer lemons, pear, and orange peel with just a hint of honeysuckle and a wet stone quality finishes things out. There is a pristine focus showcasing the exceptional balance, depth, and complexity this wine has to offer.

There is an added dimension to this wine, a change of direction, if you will, from the range of incredible Rieslings Pewsey Vale releases. Watch out for this release in the future, this wine has big potential in the future.

Cellar out to 2035 without a concern.

Pairings recommended by the winery include kingfish sashimi and lime jelly or vegetable spring rolls with Vietnamese herbs.

Mayacaba Malbec 2017 – refined elegance!

There has been some movement in the wine Industry recently in the most unexpected (by most) areas. One is the substantial increase in the quality of Sauvignon Blanc from Napa, and the second is the noticeable increase in the quality and recognition of Malbec from Argentina. This is a great example of just how good they can be, noting this is a 2017 vintage.

The nose is polished and refined with aromas of red fruits, vanilla, and spices. The palate is focused and complex delivered with a soft velvet-smooth mouthfeel. Almost seamless layers of red currents, cherries, and cranberries, with secondary layers of vanilla, raspberries, and ripe plums. Impressive elegance and restraint with great structure and balance served up with generous appeal and great length on the finish.

Cellar until 2030 without concern, and I suspect this will continue to improve out to 2035.

This elegant versatile wine should include the following pairings: Classic Argentine Steak with Chimichurri Sauce, Lomo de Llama (you read that correctly), Asado Beef Ribs, Beef-filled Empanadas, Chorizo Sandwich, Flank Steak, Stuffed Pork Loin, Pasta with Meat Sauce, Roast Duck Breast, Arroz con Pato (Rice with Duck), Coq au Vin, Turkey with Gravy, Rotisserie Chicken, Italian Beef au jus and Salami, Jamon, Prosciutto and other cured meats with firm cheeses. Nothing like options, right?

Published by thewineguy

I've been in the wine business in both Australia and the US for over 25 years with experience in the retail and wholesale, import, winery management, and hospitality industries and have a passion for all things wine. During my career I've been involved in --Wine Selection and Purchasing --Cellar Stocking --Wine List Curating --Food Pairings --Wine Tastings --Winery Tours In addition I've written a monthly newsletter for 6 years, taught classes and now, a blogger. I'm a firm believer in the simple believe of good friends, good food and good wine! I also believe you don't need an event to open a great bottle of wine, the opening of a great bottle of wine is the event.

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