tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64616962011-07-30T17:09:08.388-02:00Vinodiversity is the Blog for winelovers who enjoy Australian wine made from less common wine varieties.<BR> No Chardonnay here! <BR> <strong>It is a companion to the <a href="http://www.vinodiversity.com.">Vinodiversity site</a></strong>Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.comBlogger3371100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-66266274018488904632009-10-21T09:12:00.000-02:002009-10-21T09:12:54.405-02:00

Bacchus and the Bird: a cookbook for poultry and wine Travel Guide | GuideGeckoA book matching some great wines and poultry dishes

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-63258248358935244422009-04-28T08:15:00.000-02:002009-04-28T08:15:27.338-02:00

We had a coffe and a beer in a cafe on the balcony of the Louvre. This is the view. 

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-55191259387273809972009-03-11T23:42:00.003-02:002009-03-11T23:55:12.700-02:00

The 2009 vintage in Australia looked to be going along well in mid January, but then came a scorching heatwave that has had a dramatic effect on the expected yield and fruit quality in many vineyardsThe Victorian bushfires of February 7 caused the loss of over 200 lives and damage to vineyards and wineries as well as further heat damage over Southern Australia. Smoke damage is still being

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-154182485315211022008-12-16T00:02:00.004-02:002008-12-16T00:08:36.676-02:00

My Best wines of the year, all alternative varieties of course, wereCentennial Vineyards TempranilloMount Majura Graciano, and their TempranilloPikes Sangiovese RoseEldrege Estate Sangiovese RoseCrittenden's Geppetto ArneisTahbilk's Roussanne and MarsanneBrown Brothers Vermentino, also Di Lusso'sJust about anyone's Barbera (start with Boggy Creek!)Rewine Durif at the Queen Vic Market for value!

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-45255793359292727182008-11-11T03:37:00.003-02:002008-11-11T03:44:44.661-02:00

There is an active secondary market for Australia's iconic Grange.This wine is sought after by collectors and winelovers alike. See the online store of reputable online store at this Penfolds Grange resellerYou can see the comments of previous customers, and be assured of straight dealing as the store is hosted by eBay, a company that values its reputation.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-37114931439954990522008-11-03T20:54:00.003-02:002008-11-03T21:09:30.668-02:00

I've just updated my Wine Auction Page.There's more information about why I think buying wine this way is safe and fun.I have had a try with Ebay recently and discovered their eBay Stores service. Wine merchants (and other sellers) set up an online Store and sell their wine, either as fixed price "Buy it Now", or as a traditional auction.There is a huge advantage to buying wine online this way.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-23732656071698011072008-10-17T08:51:00.004-02:002008-10-17T09:01:03.306-02:00

Announcing a new service for Vinodiversity readers.Wine maps are essential for planning your wine trip. So Vinodiversity is launching a new service to help you find some maps. Publishers of maps, in hard or soft copy, are invited to submit details of their maps to this pageYou can help out by submitting a map, or you can comment on the descriptions of the maps, or maybe just browse.You can also

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-6158760500579342792008-09-25T00:54:00.002-02:002008-09-25T01:02:57.491-02:00

These guys really know how use the best Australian ingredients. Their cookbook shows you how to use the treasures of Australian Bush Tucker, things like wattleseed, macadamia nut oil and other flavourings, spices and seasonings. Their online store allows to buy everything you need to make some modern Authentic Australian dishes... to go with some of our great wines.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-24620457629743136662008-09-18T02:07:00.006-02:002008-09-18T02:23:10.481-02:00

The Iberian Peninsula produces a stunning and varied array of wines. The classic reds of Rioja and Ribiera del Duero, the graceful albarino from Galicia, rose from just about everywhere but especially from the emerging region of Navarre, the ports and vinho verdi from Portugal and of course the wonderful sherries.A new map of the Iberian Peninsula now been published. Detail below.The map has been

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-1330915926498542692008-09-18T02:07:00.002-02:002008-09-18T02:12:54.945-02:00

The fourth International Barbera Competition will be held later this year in Alessandria, Piedmont, Italy. The organisers have gone to some lengths to get some entries from Australia and US so it will be intersting to see the results later in the year.Details of the competiton are here Vinodiversity's page about Barbera

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-649698557597510032008-07-17T02:33:00.006-02:002008-08-13T02:38:58.510-02:00

The James Halliday Australian Wine Companion 2009 edition is about to be released.You can order your copy now fromthis online supplierWhy buy this book online?You can get a copy sent to any Australian address for just $6.00 postage. When you take the discount into account then you are only paying a measly dollar for your delivery. But if you order two (or more) copies then the postage is still

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-38151387623341316462008-06-03T02:43:00.001-02:002008-06-03T04:25:21.499-02:00

Winter has arrived for us in the Southern Hemisphere. So wine events tend to take on a different mood, more indoors.The smaller wineries in the Yarra Valley are holding their shortest lunch on the weekend of 21 and 22 of June.You can tour a bakers dozen of wineries tasting wine and enjoying an entree sized plate at each.See Vinodiversity's Yarra Valley page hereYarra Valley Smaller Wineries -

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-16886570005000918552008-05-05T08:46:00.002-02:002008-05-16T20:08:37.576-02:00

Nicholas Clark at Amietta Vineyard in the Moorabool Valley of the Geelong Wine Region has been doing it tough for the past couple of vintages. Frosts, drought and climate change have all made life difficult. Vintage has been earlier than usual, and the varieties are all ripening together leading to logistical problems at vintage.But this year, after some angst, he managed to organise to get his

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-11189762452217378802008-04-22T01:17:00.001-02:002008-04-22T01:19:38.167-02:00

Grenache is a very underrated variety in Australia. It was written off as a substandard variety in the 1980s, but some old vineyards were spared the widespread vine pulls of that time. It makes great varietal wine as well as putting the G power into GSM Blends. I reckon the best rose wines are also made from grenacheJane Faulkner has written the variety up in a recent edition of The Age, based

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-28996277791437653322008-04-19T01:28:00.001-02:002008-04-19T01:30:28.940-02:00

The Swiss Italian Festival at Daylesford honours the Swiss and Italian Pioneers who settled in the region in the middle of the 19th Century. It is being Held from 18-27 April.There will be plenty of wine and food on display. Guest Chef is Adam Pizzini of Rinaldo's at Dal Zotto Winery in the King Valley, well away from Daylesford, but he will be featuring some great Italian wine varieties to pair

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-64812714766905365912008-04-15T19:03:00.001-02:002008-04-15T19:04:50.809-02:00

Rutherglen is the place to be for the Queens Birthday weekend in 2008. You can see plenty of alternative varietal wines, check out the list on Vinodiversity's Rutherglen wineries pageSat 07 Jun 2008 to Mon 09 Jun 2008More details hereMore Aussie wine events here

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-69984574871988019812008-04-13T02:47:00.000-02:002008-04-13T02:47:54.556-02:00

I was inspired by the image above Autumn Colours in a Vineyard, Barbera Grape Variety, Barolo, Piemonte, Italy to start a bit of a makeover on Vinodiversity.The Image comes from Art.com who have a wonderful online shop with absolutely tons of art and photographic prints on all subjects.So if you want to redecorate your palce you know where to look. There is an optional framing service as

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-6460191417720364062008-03-31T17:31:00.001-02:002008-03-31T17:35:56.316-02:00

The Age's Jeni Port reports on the problems besetting the 2008 Vintage in Australia, where a warmer summer has lead to a difficult vintage in some areas. Extreme heat during early March caused problems in South Australian wine areas. The time of vintage was earlier in most regions.During most vintages there is a lag between the time of ripening of earlier and later maturing varieties. Wineries

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-84430048630585595512008-03-31T02:22:00.001-02:002008-03-31T17:32:55.679-02:00

Wineries in the Granite Belt region of Queensland have developed a program called Strange Bird. It is a Wine trail to encourage visitors to the region to seek out the alternative varieties being grown at 17 of the local vineyards.The Strange Bird program was featured on the ABC Landline Program on 30 March. Many of the innovative winemakers had their say about the region and the new varieties.You

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-32709723795633905782008-03-19T07:57:00.001-02:002008-03-19T12:02:19.530-02:00

Local Wine events has a competition going for the best food and wine blogs.I've just added this blog into the best Blog. So far I have ZERO votes. The leader has 11,880 votes. What is happening?If you realy thing wine is interesting go to the list on LWE and scroll down and vote for Vinodiversity. Do it NOW!

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-66526294094318623932008-02-27T02:39:00.001-02:002008-02-27T02:42:42.672-02:00

The 2008 Bendigo wine vintage festival will be held on Easter Sunday 23 March 2008. As in previous years the event will be held in the beautiful Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, Just a short stroll from the railway station, so why not catch a train up from Melbourne? See Vinodiversity's Page about the Bendigo wine region More details of the festival

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-18424408433278735292008-02-24T23:41:00.002-02:002008-02-25T01:54:15.243-02:00

Dealing with climate change will be a big topic over the next few years and the wine industry will have to play it's role. Many vineyards and wineries are using environmentally friendly production methods, or are modifying processes to do so. It makes sense financially, as well as being a marketing plus.Packaging of wine is just as important. Considerable energy can be saved by using lighter or

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-40159500584305898122008-02-10T08:29:00.001-02:002008-08-18T23:44:42.732-02:00

I've broken out!I've built a page about Riesling! I know it's not "alternative" but I like it. See this pageI've even invited your comments. Be part of the Riesling resurgence. Best Riesling wines

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-35330347021270707912008-02-08T22:35:00.000-02:002008-02-08T22:36:16.902-02:00

Riesling is a much misunderstood grape and wine style. The public hate it but it is becoming more accepted, in fact it is now the fastest growing wine style in the US.Three new organisations have emerged on the international scene dedicated to this wonderful grape. The EU's Wine Institute, Washington's Riesling, and a body called the Riesling Rendezvous.Not sure what the Aussies are doing. Leave

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-77134508480072031712008-02-04T20:53:00.000-02:002008-02-04T20:55:49.240-02:00

Albarino pioneer winemaker Damien Tscharke.In The Age on 5/2/2008 Jeni Port reports on the enthusiasm for albarino that is gripping some vineyards n Australia.A great white is circling - Epicure article

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-23707635746851174862008-02-04T04:55:00.000-02:002008-02-04T04:59:06.616-02:00

Not Pinot GrisA vineyard owner is suing a nursery for allegedly selling him thousands of the wrong grape vines.The South Australian vineyard owner says the mistake was not picked up until the vines matured about four years later.Full story here

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-85129162521228883802008-01-30T20:48:00.000-02:002008-01-30T20:48:29.144-02:00

Vintage 2008 is underwayBy all reports it is looking better in quantity at least better than last year, but It's big continent that we live on.I am collecting a few reports for you to browse atAustralian Wine Vintage 2008 on SquidooContact me if you are a winemaker or grower and would like to share your experience with this vintage.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-74351480724295777532008-01-30T00:12:00.000-02:002008-01-31T17:30:18.394-02:00

The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival is coming again.Events will be held between 22 February to 8 March 2008.You can get involved in classes, tastings, long lunches (throughout Victoria) and lots of other exciting Food/wine events. See link below for more details.Melbourne Food and Wine - MF

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-18031737980397687582008-01-21T07:49:00.000-02:002008-01-31T17:29:03.203-02:00

Strathbogie Ranges Wine Region is one of the least known wine regions in Victoria. It's not that the region is remote, it is on the south east side of the Hume highway, between Seymour and Benalla.But the countryside is rugged and there are only a few towns in the region. A large proportion of the grapes grown here is used in wineries based elsewhere.But it is a region worth finding out about.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-88965404378792762812008-01-19T20:34:00.000-02:002008-01-19T20:34:31.061-02:00

I've put up the program for the Victorian Wine Regions Showcase Series. These events are held on the first Wednesday and following Thursday of each month at the Atrium in Federation Square Melbourne.Each showcase features a particular region on cluster of regions. Wineries from the regions(typically 15- 30 wineries per month) set up stalls. As a visitor you are able to visit the virtual cellar

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-40346377801204545212008-01-16T01:37:00.000-02:002008-01-16T01:37:03.457-02:00

Article in the Adelaide Advertiser about Peter Godden (pictured below) and his passion for making great NebbioloAdelaideNow... See the full article in the 'tiser Vinodiversity's page about Nebbiolo wine including a list of other producers in Australia.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-88299730490841550192008-01-14T04:43:00.000-02:002008-01-14T04:43:27.206-02:00

Steve De Long, the man of the Varietal Vine table has just released a snazzy new tasting notebook with a great cover.I have a few available in Australia for sale, so you can snap one up if you are quick.The 60 page book has a handy 8-page slip-out containing 216 aroma and flavour descriptors and other wine terms you should know, plus detailed instructions on how to taste a wine and write a

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-81567177991260826772008-01-13T20:29:00.000-02:002008-01-13T20:29:36.556-02:00

The problems of drought, frosts and fires have severely impacted on the Australian wine crop over thee past couple of years. Production is down, and exports are falling rapidly. The price per litre received for exported Australian wine is going up. This is despite the continued high value of the Australian dollar. The graph below shows the unit value of wine exports is recovering strongly from

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-74761808086251186462008-01-07T01:24:00.000-02:002008-01-07T01:25:26.736-02:00

My friend George Biron has entered the Blogosphere. He and his partner Diane are reopening the renowned Sunnybrae, the restaurant in the middle of the paddock.George is a fabulous and inventive chef. His blog is beautifully designed and presented so check it out.Sunnybrae Restaurant and Cooking School

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-8861351070445001432008-01-03T03:56:00.000-02:002008-01-03T03:56:23.573-02:00

Another year has bitten the dust and we have all had some wonderful wine experiences, well I have I hope you have as well.I've put up a list of some of my best wines for the year just past; you c an check it out, and perhaps make a suggestion or two. So far we have a Rkatsiteli from New York State, and a Cab merlot from Israel, surely there is someone who has tried a good Australian Alternative

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-31711523560135743072007-12-17T04:16:00.000-02:002007-12-17T04:24:06.406-02:00

Sparkling reds are the best style of wine for Christmas dinner. They can be as rich and deep as you like, but are still drinkable. I had a nice one with roast beef the other day, but they go well with Sepplets Sparking Shiraz is one of the iconic wines of Asutralia. At RRP of about $22.00 it is very good value. The 2005 just picked up a gold medal in Hobart. You can get some for just $14.95 if

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-19250454807469938442007-12-12T05:08:00.000-02:002007-12-12T05:35:33.043-02:00

Image of Durif from State Library of South Australia.Petite Sirah is known by its correct name of Durif in Australia. There are about 60-70 wineries making wine from Durif. See Vinodiversity's Durif page.Most of the wineries with the variety are in the warm and hot regions, Rutherglen, Riverina, Murray Darling etc. But Durif actually is also suited to cooler climate viticulture, although very

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-69146979516375760472007-12-04T01:58:00.000-02:002007-12-04T02:14:41.565-02:00

The State Library of South Australia has a collection of wine related materials. Some of the images have been digitised and put onto the website at http://www.winelit.slsa.sa.gov.au/grapeswines.htmCheck out some of the beautiful images of some of the more common grape varieties.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-4622742256371480092007-12-01T16:42:00.000-02:002007-12-01T16:54:56.719-02:00

My friend Steve De Long has done it again! He has bought out a wonderful new product.A tasting note book that fits easily into your pocket or purse. About the same size as a passport.A pocket sized tasting notebook# Elegant black cover with gold embossing slips easily into a coat pocket or purse.# Sewn binding lays flat for comfortable writing.# Water resistant wine tasting guide including WINE

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-29350980457311705812007-11-15T22:48:00.000-02:002007-11-16T00:31:40.918-02:00

Results for the 2007 Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show have been published (PDF Document)Best wine of the Show was Pizzini's 2002 Nebbiolo. Gold medals were won by the following varietiesPinot grigio, Viognier(2), Marsanne (2), Kerner, Vermentino, Sangiovese, Nebbilo (2) Tempranillo blend, Durif, Lagrein, Corvina-Rondinella and MontepulcianoA few comments on the wines hereThe awards

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-80844851729477867022007-11-12T02:34:00.000-02:002007-11-12T02:43:34.951-02:00

The Strange Bird above will guide you on the Granite Belt Alternative Wine Trail to some of the most innovative wineries in Queensland's Granite Belt. 21 wineries are participating - all have at least one wine made from alternative varieties.You can download a brochure with details and a cleverly presented map.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-10619905735903236122007-10-30T08:31:00.000-02:002007-10-30T09:21:52.309-02:00

When he consulted a cardiologist about his angina, Malcolm Smith was told to drink three glasses of red wine daily. Forget about the wowsers who want you to drink just two small glasses of low alcohol wine. You should get stuck into some Malbec or better still some Tannat.The article appeared in the UK Guardian hereThe advice depends on the work of researcher Roger Corder who has published a

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-51318652364192910322007-10-29T01:44:00.000-02:002007-10-29T01:54:35.617-02:00

White Port is an interesting style. It fits a niche rather more similar to that of a botrytis affected white than a true port. I had a bottle of white port last week courtesy of Dave Lowe at Snowy Vineyards. His White port is made with the unusual Siegerrebe variety. It's a German variety known for its ability to develop very high sugar levels.This port had a wonderful depth of flavour, but

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-23661935044071111172007-10-22T22:38:00.000-02:002007-10-22T22:53:47.997-02:00

With wine being such a gloriously natural product, it is logical that it should be one of the first to embrace more natural methods.Organic wines have some powerful advantages over conventional wines. They even facilitate deep sleep, as the lady above can testify.Seriously, winemakers are taking more care about their production methods these days. Some are Biodynamic and many are either

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-58195678660788401342007-10-18T02:23:00.000-02:002007-10-18T04:56:29.555-02:00

The Peninsula is just a short drive down the road from Melbourne. The scenery is spectacular and there are plenty of vinous treasures to be found. There are over a hundred wineries on the Peninsula and about half are using one or more alternative varieties - maily pinot gris. If you a planning a trip, and spring is a great time to visit, check out Vinodiversity's page about the Mornington

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-28176530326004221432007-10-14T23:53:00.000-02:002007-10-15T00:00:16.592-02:00

Do you match wine with food or pick a wine and then select a food match? Most books and advice are based on the assumption that you choose the food first.I like to do it the other way around. I spend time resaerching a recipe for a wine I am planning to enjoy.Have a look at some of these food suggestions to go with wine.What do you do? Leave a comment.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-23228223593355200772007-10-04T21:18:00.000-02:002007-10-04T21:38:26.996-02:00

The Granite Belt wine region doesn't do things by halves. They run a wine Fetival for SIX WEEKS! -from 28 Sep 07 To 11 Nov 07For example during the Spring Wine Festival Season you can enjoy a delicious degustation experience every Sunday at the Cooks, Gluttons & Gourmets restaurant.A four course lunch with matching wines from top Granite Belt producers, featuring a different winery each week,

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-72567103618045857732007-10-03T22:41:00.000-02:002007-10-03T22:43:29.143-02:00

Just thought I'd let you know!• Food Blog Directory

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-42069158508433098302007-09-30T03:52:00.000-02:002007-09-30T21:25:38.256-02:00

Now that the footy season is over we need something else to occupy our minds for a few months. Why not try dabbling in a wine auction or two? Ebay is popular, but for a truly professional service you can do better. I've just put a bid in on this little beauty here. Hope to get a dozen bottles of quaffing wine for less than $50.00 delivered. And an interesting blend of sangiovese and shiraz as

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-25497380940184981432007-09-26T00:36:00.000-02:002007-09-28T03:15:54.273-02:00

Explore NE Victoria, one of the state's most exciting wine regions without racking up the K's. The Showcase Series is an opportunity to taste some of the state's leading wines, meet the winemakers, learn about the wines, and help judge the "People's Choice" award for the best wines. All this in the very heart of Melbourne, at Federation Square.On October 3 and 4 some of the best wineries from

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-71452950516356552402007-09-10T21:56:00.000-02:002007-09-10T22:04:57.244-02:00

I've just snared six bottles of 2001 Riesling at auction for just $19.00. Add ten bucks for delivery and I have a nice drop without breaking the bank.If you are interested in checking out the auction scene see this page of advice first

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-62962197955755263852007-09-09T23:04:00.000-02:002007-09-09T23:13:43.390-02:00

My friend Steve de Long has just posted an article which mentions the distribution of grape varieties used to make the wine Americans are consuming.Loads of Cabernet and Chardonnay, just a smidgen of shiraz, Semillon doesn't get a look in, Pinot grigio is much more popular than in OZ and that 20% other category hides lots of diversity.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-59897491757202654512007-08-30T00:36:00.000-02:002007-08-31T21:52:40.577-02:00

If you love wine you probably love food as well. So you are always on the lookout for a good restaurant, preferably on that allows you to take your own wine. A new service can now help you with your bookings, and save money at the same time. It is operating in most Australian cities and regional areas, including Here are some of the advantages.*save lots of time*you can narrow your search to

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-65577926654260938652007-08-29T09:34:00.000-02:002007-08-29T10:00:55.314-02:00

What do you know about the Clare Valley? I've just updated my page on Vinodiversity to include the latest info about the alternative varieties used here, but I'm sure some readers have other tips and tales to tell about this wonderful South Australian Wine region.If you'd like to share your Clare experience check out Vinodiversity's Clare Valley page and have your say.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-10690792891948372102007-08-21T00:29:00.000-02:002007-08-21T00:38:01.682-02:00

Several of the pages on Vinodiversity now have a comments section. You are welcome to leave a short message to share a tip or a snippet of information about a wine variety, event or perhaps tell us about your experiences in making a wine tour.If your contribution is accepted (I edit out trash) you will have your own little page on Vinodiversity which your friends can see and comment on.See the

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-30119767729472297812007-08-17T04:33:00.000-02:002007-08-17T04:46:12.433-02:00

When I started out with Vinodiversity I had to decide just what varieties were "alternative" and what were mainstream. I adopted, with a few modifications the definition used by the Australia Alternative Varieties Wine Show. Viognier is still on their list as "alternative" and it is on mine as well.But is it still an alternative variety? Even given Viognier's dual role as a varietal and as a

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-56883709832145333172007-08-14T09:21:00.000-02:002007-08-14T09:30:23.770-02:00

Ia came across a pair of beautiful little books recently. Simply called Red Wine, and White Wine. I liked them so much I bought a dozen of each. What am I going to do with them now?I suppose the only thing I can do is give them away. But they really are good books. Sumptuous photographs and illustrations but much more info than your average coffe table books. They are little books so they don't

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-34123271811623566082007-08-13T07:35:00.000-02:002007-08-14T09:21:28.565-02:00

Each year I like to do a quick tally of which varieties are being used by Wineries designated as "new" by James Halliday in his Wine Companion. Some "new" wineries are not new. They may have undegone a name change after a change of ownership; they may have finally got around to submitting wine after a few years in operation, or lots of other things might have happened.But the "new" wineries,

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-6137504003720479612007-08-05T19:57:00.000-02:002007-08-05T20:02:58.923-02:00

What happened?The 2008 Wine Companion continues the tradition of changes, forced by the ever growing Australian wine industry.This year 650+ wineries have been dropped, many because they failed to submit samples for tasting or fill in updated information. But there were 218 new wineries listed.You can see the new wineries here (or at least the ones with alternative varieties.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-34666668335632523902007-07-26T02:18:00.000-02:002007-07-26T02:42:42.555-02:00

The 2008 edition is now with us. Why not order your copy online?You can get it at a discount from the RRP. and the shipping cost is quite modest, especially if you order a second copy, or even James Halliday's Wine Atlas of Australia, or maybe Jancis's Oxford Companion to Wine. All are available cheaper at THIS ONLINE BOOKSHOPOr... See What Vinodiversity has to say about Hallidays Wine

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-41491881196680201282007-06-28T05:48:00.000-02:002007-06-28T05:55:56.045-02:00

No! It's a Chart! De Long's Wine Grape Varietal Table.Chart or Art, Don't let the curator of Le Louvre outclass you! Buy your table now and impress your arty friends as well as your wine charty friends.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-49895586619200786082007-06-27T00:04:00.000-02:002007-06-27T00:13:03.793-02:00

The 2007 Festival will be held on July 6, 7, 8 at the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre.Wineries from all over Australia will be exhibiting. See if you can find some interesting new varietals!

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-12627419049375238152007-06-19T05:39:00.000-02:002007-06-19T05:46:00.554-02:00

Have you signed up for the Vinodiversity newsletter yet? The next issue will be out in a few days. It will contain some news about the alternative wine scene, and over the next couple of issues some new offers and bonuses will be announced...getting hold of some interesting wines and wine related products at discount prices.Joining the Vinodiversity wine newsletter is free, and it is the best

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-91785274337300504032007-06-11T03:15:00.000-02:002007-06-11T03:23:10.020-02:00

Winter has well and truly arrived in Melbourne. Each season has its delights and one of them is the arrival of quinces at the markets. These superb fruits need to be cooked. They can be roasted slowly in the oven and served with roast lamb or tagines, they are beautiful stewed for an hour or two with a couple of lemon wedges, or you can make quince paste recipe.Serve some quince paste on a

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-14251010623981434062007-06-11T00:28:00.000-02:002007-06-11T00:45:32.204-02:00

On 16 June 1904, just a hundred and three years ago a horse called Zinfandel ran at Ascot in England and etched its name into literary history. The real equine hero of the day was actually called Throwaway, who won the race and became the punch line of several puns in the novel Ulysses. James Joyce set his masterpiece on the fictional events of one day, the day in real life when he first walked

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-3131594982009442232007-06-08T03:46:00.000-02:002007-06-08T03:57:26.697-02:00

I have been working to get some new offers for the wine club and I hope to make an interesting announcement in the next few weeks. In the meantime there's a couple of emerging classics on offer - a viognier and a petit verdot, both made by top Australian companies. You can buy them the dozen, or mix and match with any of the hundreds of other wines in stock. Ordering is just a few clicks away.

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-38405604464867228782007-05-31T19:21:00.000-02:002007-05-31T19:25:47.306-02:00

The Heathcote Wine Region is featured in this month's Victorian Regional Showcase Series at the Federation Square Atrium, on Wednesday and Thursday 5 and 6 June 2007. See Details HereIf you can't make it take a virtual tour and see what is happening on the alternative wine varieties front in this wonderful region by checking out the link below.Heathcote wine region- Vinodiversity's view

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-75672763954521205432007-05-31T09:54:00.000-02:002007-05-31T10:14:47.851-02:00

In Search of Lost Varieties, if my memory of French lessons serves me right.Pierre et Philippe Aubry in Champagne have spent the past couple of decades reviving and preserving old varieties. Their winery is one of a few in champage who are using a few odd varieties permitted in the appelation, namely Pinot blanc, Petit Meslier, Arbanne, Pinot Gris and Marsanne. They are written up in a supplement

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-53418389546543437842007-05-17T06:45:00.000-02:002007-05-17T06:55:36.076-02:00

Not too many entries on this blog as I am having a rest from keyboards for a while.Plenty of Vino tho from the picpoul of teh Montpellier region to the petit manseng and tannat of Madiran and then teh fine rosados and reds of Navarre and La Rioja. But lots of sighseeing and relaxing as in the Plaza Mayor of Salamanca

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-82411597865686382682007-04-17T03:48:00.000-02:002007-04-17T03:55:51.020-02:00

Julian Curry, actor and wine buff, has devised this unique audiobook guide to wine which takes the listener to the heart of winemaking and wine drinking in a clear but light-hearted manner. However rich and complex the subject of wine may be, he insists it is also hugely rewarding and great fun.Curry's informative and entertaining programme begins with a description of work in vineyard and cellar

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-21299262635439474142007-04-16T19:02:00.000-02:002007-04-16T19:05:01.953-02:00

The Orange Region Vignerons Association is lobbying for a change in NSW law to allow wineries to charge a tasting fee. Apparently this is legal in Victoria and South Australia, but not in NSW.The arguement is that the individual winery should have the right to decide about the fee based on their own situation. My experience suggests that few wineries would charge, but there are situations where

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-79815232081368604872007-04-11T19:17:00.000-02:002007-04-11T19:19:47.959-02:00

"Just as spring signals a major shift in ingredients and cooking methods from hearty to light and fresh, so autumn brings a new set of tastes that are richer and warmer than the meals of late summer"Food and wine expert Fiona Beckett gives some suggestions for matching wine with some seasonal foods for us coming into the cooler half of the year...Aged wines are the go.Why old is gold for autumn

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-83924949323213411692007-04-08T22:21:00.000-02:002007-04-08T22:38:25.258-02:00

Sunday, 29 April 2007, 11:00am-5:00pmThis annual event is designed to bring people into Langhorne Creek to enjoy a fun day of fine food, local wine and jazz music.See the range of wineries and their alternative varieties in Vinodiversity's page about Langhorne CreekLanghorne Creek Jazz on Bremer Festival

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-69361622719887144702007-04-08T03:39:00.001-02:002007-04-08T03:47:15.616-02:00

Simple solution for cork taintAn article from LA Times ReportCORKED wine is the ultimate wine disappointment, all the more crushing when the bottle in question is a costly, highly anticipated extravagance. One whiff of the aroma of old gym socks, the signature scent of trichloranisole (TCA), and the only option is to pour the bottle down the sink.Or is it?Mel Knox, a San Francisco-based

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-61723179187073824162007-03-27T08:58:00.000-02:002007-03-29T23:37:40.471-02:00

Frosts, bushfires, drought and heatwaves have all taken their toll on Australian winegrowers this season. Some vineyards have decided not to have a vintage at all in 2007. Overall yields are down dramatically. Others expect to have the highest quality for years, there is a vast mosaic of outcomes across Australia, but most agree it is an exceptional year.As the picture unfolds comments from

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-31282871854063332682007-03-26T19:00:00.000-02:002007-03-26T19:02:33.936-02:00

The Gippsland wine region (or more correctly zone) is large and diverse. The vineyards are scattered among some of Victoria's most beautiful scenery. Think Wilsons Prom, the ninety mile beach, the mountains and high plains.The wineries of the region will be on display at the Fed Square Wine Showcase Series on Wed and Thursday 4 and 5 April 2007. See you there.See Vinodiversity's page about

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-65836441844192003172007-03-24T19:08:00.000-02:002007-03-26T02:40:28.133-02:00

Is this the biggest and the best wine festival in Australia? Well, you be the judge. It is certainly the festival with the biggest wines, following the region's tradition of producing heroic reds and fortifieds.Get your map of Rutherglen wineries here, see what wineries are leading the pack in alternative varieties and start planning your trip.Rutherglen Winery Walkabout

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-36172658223567727352007-03-18T17:55:00.000-02:002007-03-18T17:55:35.537-02:00

Just saw this article on Decantor.com website and I wondered... Is it 1st of April already?Aussie scientists make a dress out of wine article from decanter.com

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-6393625353723334172007-03-15T02:08:00.000-02:002007-03-15T02:13:38.852-02:00

Hunter Food and Wine FestivalMerewether Beach11am - 5pm Saturday and Sunday17-18 MARCH 2007Full Details Here Wine and Waves

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-67637195167560854862007-03-01T21:15:00.000-02:002007-03-01T21:34:22.327-02:00

The 2007 Vintage in Australia looks like one to forget for many wineries. Chrismont in the King Valley have just announced that they will not be producing any wine for this vintage. Two heavy frosts in spring were followed by three bushfires around the vineyard. Elsewhere throughout Australia water shortages and frosts have devastated the crops. For example, my friends at Ridgemill Estate have

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-2204243835645301232007-02-27T03:55:00.000-02:002007-09-09T23:15:55.745-02:00

I have been selling the wine grape variety table and wine and grape indexes at a very low price, just $50.00 posted to an Australian address. Now I've done my sums I realise I just have to put the price up. From Thursday 1 March 2007 it will be $60.00, still a bargain compared to the close to $90 you would pay to get one sent from the US... but why wait to pay more.Put in your order now while it

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-18804401236973266092007-02-26T08:54:00.000-02:002007-02-26T09:24:31.464-02:00

The Sydney Royal Show wine judging results were announced recently. No Gold Medals were awarded in in the Other Varietals - Red class, Siver Medals were given to Brown Brothers and to Morris for Durif, Trentham Estate for Petit Verdot and Cassela wines for Tempranillo.In the Other Varietals - White class Yalumba snagged a Gold for their Viognier, and De Bortoli Wines won Silver for

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-66715686446847927832007-02-22T18:14:00.000-02:002007-02-22T18:15:49.605-02:00

Argentina is suffering from el Nino too.Wine Spectator on line reports that unseasonal weather is hitting the wine industry in Argentina. Australian wine producers are not alone in facing probems fro the 2007 vinatge.Wine Spectator | Articles | Argentina Likely in for Tough Year after Hail Hits Vineyards-full report

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-1262196104998254342007-02-20T22:13:00.000-02:002007-02-20T22:28:49.002-02:00

I now have supplies of this table for mailing to Australian addresses. The cost, including GST and Postage is just $50.00; but I can only hold this price until 28 Feb. After that I will have to put the price up to $60.00, still a bargain, but why wait to pay more!I display this chart each month at the Victorian Regional Wine Showcases and it attracts lots of attention among those keen to learn

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-47315668231244624662007-02-17T20:43:00.000-02:002007-02-17T20:45:55.223-02:00

This event is held on Easter Sunday each year at the beautiful Castlemaine Gardens. This year it falls on April 8. Over 30 wineries will be offering tastings, there are always some good food choices available, a variety of entertainment and a very friendly atmosphere.Bendigo Winemakers Festival

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-27534130242084612722007-02-15T22:47:00.000-02:002007-02-15T22:50:01.663-02:00

The Melbourne Food and wine Festival is now into it's 15th year, and it gets bigger and better every year.There's the long lunches, now held all over the state, from Mildura to Noojee and Moonambel to Wodonga as well as in Telstra Dome where a luck 1500 people will be fed. The Cellar door at Southgate features 70 Wineries, and there are loads of wine and food seminars, masterclasses and even the

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-9988153132302256622007-02-13T22:52:00.000-02:002007-02-12T21:21:44.310-02:00

The Crush wine festival in the Adelaide Hills is the annual vintage and harvest festival for this innovative and varied region.Download a programMore Australian wine events at this Squidoo

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-62650854694098641242007-02-12T20:07:00.000-02:002007-02-12T20:16:42.127-02:00

The 2007 vintage in Victoria looks like being a disaster for may of the state's wineries. The bad news started in the spring of 2006 when severe frosts hit many vineyards just as the new buds were appearing. Now severe water shortages have vineyard managers struggling to keep vines alive, let alone producing a decent crop. In between time many vineyards in NE Victoria were damaged or threatened

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-4896614286504723342007-02-11T19:12:00.000-02:002007-02-11T19:12:42.749-02:00

Heathcote's annual wine and food festival is dubbed "Class in a Glass"The organisers are on the ball. They have the program up on their website already. Take a lead from them and put the weekend of 6 and 7 of October in your diary.For those not familiar with the region Heathcote is a Shirazophile's heaven. But there are plenty of wineries doing wonderful things with other varieties, including

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-57655935547520051852007-02-07T18:05:00.000-02:002007-02-07T18:20:00.571-02:00

The Grampians provide one of the most dramatic backdrops to a wine region in Australia. From the east the escarpments appear to suddenly rear up out of the Earth. The wine tradition here is unbroken since the gold era with the two icons of Best's and Seppelts Great Western both holding immense fascination for the serious historian of Australian wine.The first weekend in May is time for this

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-586698903660262862007-02-05T22:04:00.000-02:002007-02-05T22:18:29.772-02:00

This offer can't last! Our wine distributor snapped up the last of the wine at Broken Earth. The winery went bust due to over enthusiasm before the wine glut... bad timing, but that's business.The Petit Verdot and the Verdelho are both very good wines for the price. I am on my third box of the PV. It shows exactly why the variety is so successful in warmer inland regions. Not to much body, but

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-32321986278419520602007-02-03T23:54:00.000-02:002007-02-04T00:08:05.120-02:00

I don't really know, but I suspect that many (if not most) of the readers of this blog are Baby Boomers. So we are entering the contemplative phase of our lives. Some of us have made wills and we are all busy planning for our retirement.Many of us have accumulated a few bottles of wine that we regard as special, either for the wine itself, or the memories attached to it. (I have two bottles of

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-27657455666247585632007-01-31T18:08:00.000-02:002007-01-31T18:39:43.690-02:00

Sherries of all types are much misunderstood wines. Although they are fortified, they are in fact quite low in alcohol, about 15% - close to the aclohol content of many of the reds and whites you are now drinking.Fino sherry is represented by the ubiquitous Tio Pepe, but it seems that it is NEVER served correctly. Try a Fino this way...1. Put an onopened bottle in the fridge for at least an

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-48284341063471478822007-01-27T21:05:00.000-02:002007-01-27T21:12:10.934-02:00

This is a long running festival combining all of the familiar ingredients, wine, food, music and fun. Over the weekend of 17 and 18 of February, there is something for everyone. Lovers of vinodiversity should check out the list on this page to make sure they are not overwhelmed by the mainstream wines so prevalent in the Yarra Valley. There are some real gems there if you look.Grape Grazing

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-27776330886627421852007-01-26T01:00:00.000-02:002007-01-26T01:00:33.360-02:00

The Canberra wine region is centred on the township of Murrumbateman to the north of the national capital. The cool continental climate is suitable for growing a range of varieties and a few wineries are now stepping outside the traditional range and developing some interesting wines. Look out for some exciting Viognier, Pinot Gris, Tempranillo, Barbera and Sangiovese in this region.If you are

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-6416827291831443312007-01-22T17:58:00.000-02:002007-01-22T17:58:17.198-02:00

My friend Matt Hayward has launched an incredibly useful website that maps cellar doors in all of Australia's Wine Regions. The maps are powered by Google maps. You can see a map view, a satellite view or a hybrid. These maps, and the satellite pictures are amazing. You can zoom in see fine details, or you can get an overview of the region.The data for the 2500 or so wineries in Australia is

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-83327735604132673082007-01-21T18:36:00.000-02:002007-01-24T08:50:26.015-02:00

The longest and oldest wine event in Australia. The program offers wine, fun, food, music, wine, church services, heritage, markets, scarecrows, an air show, golf, grape stomping and even more wine.Join in the fun.Plan your trip with Expedia.com.au!More details @ Barossa Vintage Festival Web page

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-2331955283957339302007-01-16T01:40:00.000-02:002007-01-16T01:40:36.069-02:00

There are probably still a few sceptics out there when it comes to pinot gris/grigio but there are now well over two hundred Australian wineries using the variety.Any spare pinot G grapes left over are been mopped up by our friends at Casella, who can't get enough of it.In todays Age Epicure there is a piece by Jenni Port which provides a great summary of the history of the grape thus far.Shades

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-18945859517433673722007-01-15T03:50:00.000-02:002007-01-15T03:50:42.876-02:00

My friend Sue Thornton, winemaker at Amulet has made this excellent suggestion for a dish to serve with her Duck Label BarberaPot Roasted Lamb with Quinces

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6461696.post-1168135574563020712007-01-07T00:06:00.000-02:002007-01-21T18:44:34.643-02:00

The Geelong Region is the next to be featured in Victorian Regional Wine Showcase Series held in Federation Square in Melbourne.Pinot gris/grigio is certainly the leading alternative varietal wine in the Geelong region, reflecting the coolish climate and perhaps the influence of the Mornington Peninsula just across the bay.*See the full 2007 program of Wine Showcases here*Vinodiversity's page on

Darby and Suehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06633641929217208287noreply@blogger.com0