The Adelaidian was invited to Sidewood Estate’s new release launch earlier this week and how could we resist? Because…wine!
The launch was held at Grace The Establishment in Norwood on Tuesday night and showcased Sidewood Estate’s newest drops! Owners and vignerons Owen and Cassandra Inglis invited close family, friends and press to indulge in canapés and drinks in the beer garden.
The new releases included Sparking NV, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz. Their award-winning pear cider was also available to taste.
“Some really great recognition is coming along to us at Sidewood which we appreciate and is going to help us grow and develop our market, not only domestically but internationally”, Mr Inglis said.
First up, the Sparking NV was light, crisp and fruity with subtle strawberry and lemon notes. This champagne was easy to drink and will be a crowd favourite in the warmer months.
The Sauvignon Blanc was a delicious drop having recently won a gold medal at the Royal Melbourne Wine Awards. Crisp, with a clean finish, it was very easy to drink with flavours of passionfruit, citrus and tropical fruits. This one would pair well with a seafood dish, ideally consumed on a balcony overlooking the sunset on a summer night.
I’m not normally a red wine drinker but I did taste the Shiraz. After a very expertly executed ‘swirl’ of the glass to release the aromas of cherry and blackcurrant, the red delivered sharp flavour with subtle hints of cinnamon and plum and a bite to finish. This drop would be perfectly suited for a curry dish, scotch fillet or lamb roast.
Canapés included prawns with a delectably tangy Virgin Mary sauce, which complimented the Sauvignon Blanc nicely, as well as oysters and duck paté for those who enjoy an acquired taste.
Sidewood Estate is a privately owned vineyard, nestled in the cool climate regions of the Adelaide Hills. It’s owners and vignerons Owen and Cassandra Inglis have owned the estate since 2004. The vineyard is situated on 300 acres in the Onkaparinga Valley. The wines are made by internationally acclaimed winemakers Natasha Mooney and Darryl Catlin at Sidewood’s impressive boutique winery in Nairne, Adelaide Hills.
“We’ve recently completed the expansion of our winery at Nairne and we’ve just signed an acquisition for a very unique vineyard in the Adelaide Hills, which will be specialist red vineyard”, Mr Inglis said.
“I’m sure we will very soon be continuing to produce some of Australia’s best cool climate reds”.
So far eight of their wines have won at least two awards, including five white wins and three reds.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the new range at your local bottle shop or visit the Sidewood Cellar Door at Maximilian’s Restaurant, overlooking the picturesque Adelaide Hills. Any excuse for a wine tour!
