Aphelion Callow Grenache Blanc 2021

I like this. A lot. A variety capable of wines more reliant on chew than acidity. And for the better! This copes with Thai spice, wasabi and soy, far better than riesling’s brazen acidity ever could. It’s no wonder that Asian cultures have a joke at our expense when it comes to the belief that riesling pairs with their many cuisines. Fine aromas of quince, lemon balm, apricot pith, jasmine and ginger. Subdued. Confident. Sits pretty in the mouth, on a saddle of phenolics. I would like even more. A bit more ripeness, too. A wine of the future, still from young vines. For the table and not the pool. Points: 93/100

James Halliday Wine Companion 2023 ∙ 3rd Aug 2022

Distinctive and savory white that is part of a new movement to this variety in South Australia’s McLaren Vale. Aromas of yellow flowers, such as chamomile, together with grassy notes, lemon and dried pear. The palate has a soft texture with attractive pear and apple fruit. Drink now. Screw cap. Points: 92/100

jamessuckling.com ∙ 30th Mar 2022

Light yellow colour. The bouquet is smoky and creamy-leesy, with some silvered almond, wisps of lemon and other citrus in the background, notes of blossom, while the palate is intense and bright, vibrant and fresh with body and intensity, drive and length. A delicious wine—fruit sweetness at the heart of it, then great flavour that persists long with ample and harmonious acidity and phenolic touches. This sets the bar for this grape variety in Australia. Points: 95/100

The Real Review ∙ 2nd Mar 2022

I like this. A lot. A variety capable of wines more reliant on chew than acidity. And for the better! This copes with Thai spice, wasabi and soy, far better than riesling’s brazen acidity ever could. It’s no wonder that Asian cultures have a joke at our expense when it comes to the belief that riesling pairs with their many cuisines. Fine aromas of quince, lemon balm, apricot pith, jasmine and ginger. Subdued. Confident. Sits pretty in the mouth, on a saddle of phenolics. I would like even more. A bit more ripeness, too. A wine of the future, still from young vines. For the table and not the pool. Points: 93/100

hallidaywinecompanion.com.au ∙ 2nd Nov 2021

Grenache Blanc, which is a pretty hard grape variety to get right, though when it’s good, it’s very good, if you take my meaning. Pear skin, chamomile. musk, and spice. Juicy pear, fresh acidity, a little bitter lemon tang, fine dusty texture, and a lemon zest tang on a long and cool finish. My goodness. This is an excellent dry white of fine balance and interest. Delightful. Such a good glass of dry white here. Points: 93/100

The Wine Front ∙ 9th Sep 2021