Great Australian rosé: Cassegrain wines

I’ve been tasting an eclectic mix of wines since I’ve been back in Australia, though I’ll save some of the impressive ones for my posts on our mini-Mudgee tour and visits in Orange.

In a moment of rosé in the house, rare for us, we had to tip a bottle of 2006 Bloodwood Big Men in Tights down the sink, proving that rosés shouldn’t be kept for too long.

But in its place we had a lovely Cassegrain’s 2008 rosé, made from cabernet sauvignon grapes. This for me is wonderful rosé, refreshing enough, without that frustrating indecisive style when rosés aren’t sure if they wanted to be reds. The description on the label is about as accurate as you’ll get: poached rhubarb on the palate. This is like drinking a refreshing white with a little more weight and it was quite delightful.

Currently open this evening is the Cassegrain’s 2008 Fromenteau Reserve Chardonnay. It’s an elegant chardonnay, smooth but not too oaky. It has a fruity nose and to really enjoy its silkiness and full flavour, I recommend drinking not too cold. Out of the cellar should be fine.

If you haven’t tried any Cassegrain Wines, they’re worth the exploration, especially if you get to the cellar door. They have really friendly, knowledgeable staff who’ll take the time to give you the right introduction.