McKellar Ridge: Crafting Elegance
It’s hard to believe that 2024 marks only the 6th vintage for Marina and John at McKellar Ridge, given the outstanding quality of their wines. We feel that they are producing wines that reflect meticulous attention to detail, hard work, and an impressive understanding of the winemaking process. Here's a look at what we tasted in store this week:
Cherie D'amour 2024 (12.1% Alc. | VF) $24.95
A half-dry Sauvignon Blanc made from Tumbarumba fruit. Bold tropical aromas of pineapple, passionfruit, and peach burst from the glass, balanced by a strong acid line that cuts through the fruit sweetness. It's a perfect balance between luscious and crisp—a great wine to sip on a warm afternoon.
Riesling 2024 (11.9% Alc. | VF) $34.95
This dry Riesling from Canberra fruit is aromatic and textural, offering a delicious combination of lime, grapefruit, white florals, and a hint of musk. The natural acidity gives it a crisp, clean finish that leaves you wanting more. A fresh and vibrant Riesling that’s really good now and will only improve with a little time.
Viognier 2024 (12.8% Alc. | VF) $29.95
A nouveau-style Viognier, this wine offers notes of apricot and tangerine, complemented by a delicate hint of honeysuckle. The fruit is from Canberra, and the wine shows a soft, clean finish with just the right amount of complexity and minerality.
Pinot Noir 2023 (13.2% Alc. | VF) $34.95
Made from Tumbarumba fruit, this medium-bodied Pinot Noir is soft and smooth, with silky integrated tannins complimented by the seasoned French oak. The red cherry and raspberry flavours are enhanced by a subtle violet aroma, creating a beautifully balanced and elegant Pinot Noir.
Shiraz 2022 (13.1% Alc. | VF) $44.95
This Shiraz, made from 85% estate fruit and 15% Hilltops fruit, is a spicy and elegant medium-bodied wine. The red plum, raspberry, and red cherry flavors are complemented by fine tannins and a smooth finish. It's a wonderfully balanced Shiraz that pairs beautifully with food and showcases the potential of the Canberra District.
Cabernet 2021 (14.1% Alc. | VF) $54.95
Sourced from 30-year-old estate vines, this Cabernet is one for the cellar. Flavoursome and complex, it boasts structured tannins alongside dark fruit flavors, cocoa, nutmeg, and liquorice. It's a wine that will continue to develop beautifully over time, making it a great investment for your collection.
From the Store to the Vineyard
This week, the McKellar Ridge wines were such a hit in-store that we decided to head out to the vineyard to pick up some extra stock. While we were there, John and Marina let us sample a few of their 2024 wines straight from the barrel. The 2024 reds will be outstanding.
Couldn’t resist a taste of the just released 2024 Sauvignon Blanc—it’s something really special, and I’m genuinely excited about it. It was great to get a glimpse of what’s to come, and we’re eager to share these wines with you, however you will need to patient.
McKellar Ridge continues to impress with each vintage, and I’m looking forward to seeing how these wines develop. Stay tuned for more tastings and updates. Cheers!