The boutique Lost Valley Winery in the Upper Goulburn Region of Victoria's Central Highlands has the only planting of this premium variety in Australia but more remarkably, the only outside its traditional growing region in Italy. The 1.5 hectares of Cortese vines have seen vintages since 2000, the original ones imported from Italy by the winery's founder. The thinking was to find the most advantageous terroir best suited to the growth of this rare Italian varietal specifically matching the same characteristics of the Piedmont region.
While I didn't get too carried away by the hype, it was nevertheless an enjoyable drink. Pale straw yellow and golden green hues in the glass. Restrained aromas of nashi pear, apples and passionfruit. There are spicy and nutty nuances there too but a smokey metallic component in the background left me somewhat perplexed. The light to medium palate was delicate and dry with a great mouthfeel throughout of peach, apricot, lemon and white asparagus. A subdued honeyed and spice flavour carries to the finish. Would pair well with seafood and white meat dishes and could cellar easily another 5 years. This is a charismatic and unique Australian wine that does deserve its kudos.
Source: Retail Purchase. Rating: 90+ Points. Website: http://www.lostvalleywinery.com/
