THE LITTLE WINE COMPANY 2024 LYRE LYRE ($25 / Hunter Valley, NSW)
This week I am talking about a clever, exciting blend from the Hunter Valley - an area more associated with tradition than innovation. This delightful blend could not exist in Europe or most of the wine world as it is a blend of Portuguese and Italian native varieties. In Europe it is illegal to plant non-local grape varieties + the “Classics” unless approved by the draconian Wine Police (Authorities) so it is not possible to plant Portuguese & Italian in the one vineyard, or even ship in the foreign variety as wine and blend it with the local. They would march you off to gaol.
Thankfully for our palates we here in Australia have not such rules.
We have one main rule- make good wine possibly succeed- make poor wine fail for sure.
So to today's little ripper it is the The Little Wine Company 2024 Hunter Valley Lyre Lyre (vegan).
A smashing blend of Verdelho, Pecorino, Vermentino & Albarino. It has an interesting bouquet of florals, stone fruit, with just a smidge of citrus. The palate is crisp, vibrant with lashings of enchanting- dare I say, unique flavours with bright acidity making it not only a great aperitif wine but also a superb companion for an antipasto, meze or seafood.
BLOODY MARVELOUS!!!
P.S. I hear that they have a red called Llamas in Pyjamas which is a cracker as well- check their excellent wine out at www.thelittlewinecompany.com.au
Incidentally The Little Wine Company were also one of the first half a dozen wineries in Australia to produce a Pecorino wine.
Very innovative for the Hunter!!!
Dan Traucki