Petaluma Hanlin Hill Riesling 2005 and Fairview Pinotage Viognier 2003
Petaluma Hanlin Hill Riesling 2005, Clare Valley, 13%, €19.99 This stunning Riesling begs superlatives. Huge lemon and lime intensity on the nose gives way to a feather-like quality in the mouth, yet it is taut, with good acidity followed by a rich, full finish. It is great now but will, we are told, get better. Screwcap. From McCabes (the Gables), Foxrock, Co Dublin; Oddbins, branches around Dublin.
Fairview Pinotage Viognier 2003, Coastal Region, 14.5%, €14.99 This unlikely combination from South Africa works brilliantly. A little Viognier adds an aromatic softness to the Pinotage. From Donnybrook Fair, Dublin 4; Jus De Vine, Portmarknock, Co Dublin; Devenay, Dundrum, Dublin 14; Vintry, Rathgar, Dublin 6; and Greenacres, Wexford.