In guess the variety game, this is a ripper with which to bamboozle your friends at a dinner party. Unless someone has a MW, it may prove an interesting and entertaining exercise.
Although little is planted in Australia, the answer is Scheurebe, a German variety that is a crossing between Riesling (its father) and a wild grape vine called Buketttraube - translated in English as bouquet grape. According to Florian Boehm, Cellar Door Manager at Margaret River's Wills Domain Winery, "Buketttraube is not grown anymore in Germany. The crossing was created by Dr. Scheu where its name comes from. Rebe is the German word for vine."
When we think of Margaret River, mainstream varieties tend to come to mind. Located in the sub-region of Yallingup, the multi-award winning Wills Domain is owned by the Haunold Family whose German background has had long winemaking traditions since the 1300’s, mentions Boehm. He explains further: "Due to this background Darren Haunold decided he would like to introduce a new German variety to the region. There is an area in the vineyards which is too damp for red varieties but it’s a great terroir for Scheurebe which likes these conditions."
A widely repeated quotation about 'Scheu' as it is referred to, had me amused and thought I'd share it even if its relationship to Riesling brings up some family issues. In my opinion, more of a wild child !
Scheurebe
is Riesling just after it read the Kama Sutra. Put another way, Scheu is what
Riesling would be if Riesling were a transvestite. If Riesling expresses all
that is Noble and Good, Scheu offers all that is Dirty and Fun. It is
Riesling's evil, horny twin.
"The 2014 is the second vintage," Boehm continues "so it’s very interesting for us how great it performs here in Margaret River with its distinctive aromas, pretty floral nose and acidity, which is not as high as in Riesling."
Bright silvery straw in colour. Stunningly translucent. An extra '+' to the score for this quality.
Very perfumy with red current, gooseberry, wild grassy herbs and orange blossom notes.
Think of a cross between Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc and you have the aromatics of the 'Scheu.'
There is an expressive palate of green apple, honeysuckle, minerality and blood orange notes. Great balance overall. Mouth watering, juicy and subtle tannins. Off-dry, fresh and bright with a lingering finish of pink grapefruit.
Attractively presented in a brown bottle no less. Aromatic, delicious and such a great find.
Postscript. Wills Domain believes that it is the only producer of Scheurebe in Australia at present.
Source: Sample. ABV: 12.5%. Closure: Screwcap. Price: $29.00. Rating: 92+ Points.
