Sarah Ahmed – The Wine Detective

Pemberton’s Karri trees, pictured, reach dizzying heights and so it is with Western Australia’s wines. Thrilling then to discover on my latest visit that WA’s food culture is as regionally nuanced and fine as the wine.  For your delight and delectation, I’ve distilled the highlights of my three week stay diary-style – you can chart my progress in this wine and food lovers’ paradise by clicking here.

Wine-wise, there’s over 100 tasting notes to tickle your palate – my favourites? These most definitely have the phwoar factor – John Kosovich Rare Muscat, Talijancich Tokay 1969, Lilac Hill Estate Wines Fine Old Tawny, Bellarmine Riesling Auslese 2008, Batista Selection Pinot Noir 2007, Cullen Kevin John Chardonnay 2007, Cullen Diana Madeline 2007, Marri Wood Park Reserve Chenin Blanc 2006, Woodlands Cabernet Franc 2005, Woodlands Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Lillian Chardonnay 2008, Lillian Marsanne Roussanne 2008, Stella Bella Suckfizzle Sauvignon Semillon 2008, Voyager Estate Tom Price Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2004, Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay 2006.

On a lighter note, you can also find out:

• where I draw the lovocore line on a bushtucker trial (pictured); and
• how I get on with my chair –v- surfing shark dilemma…

And while writing about WA,  I’ve just tasted these new releases from Ferngrove Estate in Frankland River, Great Southern.  They get my good value for money vote:

Ferngrove Symbols Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2009, Frankland River – fresh and frisky nose and palate with plenty of pea pod, green bean and fresh mown grass, the Semillon lending ripe citrus/lemony fruit and acidity.  There’s a dusty (in a good way), steely mineral note to the finish, which has good length at a UK RRP of £8.99 to £9.50:

Ferngrove Symbols Cabernet Merlot 2008 Frankland River – intense blackcurranty nose and palate with plum, bitter chocolate, violets and dried roses, supported by velvety tannins.  Nice balance and length with attractive cedar hints to the finish.  Particularly good value at a UK RRP of £8.99-9.50.

Contact  Seckford Wine Agencies for details of Ferngrove stockists.

All best

Sarah Ahmed
The Wine Detective