Big win for the Plonk

Jamsheed Le Blanc Plonk 2010 (Victoria)
12.7%, Screwcap, $20
Source: Sample
www.jamsheed.com.au

I’m sure that some will look at me funny for loving this as much as I do (Mr Walsh I’m thinking of you) but, quite frankly, this is the sort of wine that I want to drink. A blending triumph, a textural and aromatic bag of fun that combines mega serious acidity with real style. Me likey. But I won’t hold it against you if you don’t, though it’s well worth a try for the dollars really.

Oh and for the record this is a blend of Grampians Riesling, King Valley Gewurtz and Yarra Valley Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. On the production side this saw old oak and some careful skin contact. Progressive winemaking ++ with a clear nod to the ways of Marcel Deiss and other Alsace tinkerers.

It all kicks off with a wildly spicy, musk aftershave and lavender floral nose that clearly draws on some lovely Gewurtz fruit. Did I mention that I really like good Gewurtz? Palate is sour, long, very dry and crunchy, the acidity firm, nee almost severe, before that gentle viscosity and textural softness of a little lees enriched, fruit juiciness takes over.

The real attraction then is the tension between fruit juiciness, deftly supportive winemaking influences and acidity. It smells richer than it tastes, and it tastes both bone dry and generous. It wants for a little intensity perhaps, but gee the style, drinkability and cerebral attraction factor is through the roof.

We need more wines like this, at these sort of prices. Yes. 18/93