At up to 100 points, Australian all-stars knock it out of the park in this week’s Wine Spectator Insider. Penfolds has seven releases here, led by the legendary Grange Shiraz and the Bin 707 Cabernet, and Torbreck comes in at six, with the latest RunRig Shiraz in the mix. Leeuwin excels with Chardonnay, and there’s an appearance from Two Hands as well.
95 pts Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay 2010; Margaret River, WA
Aromatically tight, but expansive and expressive in the mouth, pouring out its pear, green guava and fig flavors in a generous stream, with glints of spice. Comes together smoothly on a deftly balanced frame to let the finish sail on and on. Drink now through 2030. From Australia. – H.S.
92 pts Brokenwood ILR Reserve Semillon 2007; Hunter Valley, NSW
Light and silky, with pretty pear, lime, mineral and spice flavors coming together on the taut, almost fragile finish. This has depth and length without weight. Should develop more nuances with time. Drink now through 2022. – H.S.
91 pts Leeuwin Estate Prelude Vineyards Chardonnay 2011; Margaret River, WA
Fresh and lively, with vibrant acidity to balance ripe pear and floral flavors, hinting at clotted cream as the finish lingers. Drink now through 2015. – H.S.