Giaconda and its modest and down to earth, nevertheless celebrated, winemaker Rick Kinzbrunner (see photo) visited Sydney two weeks ago. I had the chance to meet him and taste three wines from his rk range and two fantastic estate wines. It was indeed a special encounter.
Unfortunately the rk branded wines are only available in Australia through the retailer Vintage Cellars and there is no overseas distribution for them.
2009 rk Chardonnay - Beechworth, Victoria
Wow, what a pleasant start. Although a fresh vintage, it is immensely drinkable now. A lemony peachy sensation with the first taste with impeccable varietal definition and balance. Excellent length and a beautiful fine finish.
Certainly Burgundy like and the perfect wine to drink while waiting for the Estate wine to mature. Just lovely.
95 points. AUD $59
2008 Giaconda Estate Chardonnay - Beechworth, Victoria
At nearly twice the price, it is certainly a massive step up from the rk but so it should be. While the first wine may not require much Chardonnay experience from the drinker, the Estate is certainly aiming at the discerning connoisseur.
Closed, reserved nose with Burgundian complexities of minerals and toasty oak. Focussed full bodied palate with perfect varietal flavours, excellent drive and a mile long finish. Made for the long haul, this superbly made Chardonnay need at least 5 years in the cellar to unfold. Beautiful acid structure guarantees a long life. Sip it, enjoy it and don’t over chill it.
96 points now, 98 points in 7 years. AUD $100+
2008 Giaconda Aeolia - Beechworth, Victoria
Southern Rhone inspired white made with 100% Roussanne grapes. While the D’Arenberg examples are fun, this is very serious stuff. Hints of apricot flowers and roasted cashew nuts. Full bodied and almost creamy in texture. A weighty wine for those looking for something different. A food wine, try it with orange duck. Flavour packed and concentrated. Very good.
94 points. AUD $80+
2008 rk Shiraz- Beechworth, Victoria
Somehow I just felt that I’ll be on a downward spiral with the reds. Upon swirling lots of blackberries and noticeable alcohol. Rich dark fruit characters on the medium bodied palate. Well balanced, smooth and polished. Still very young, needs 3 years to show its best and will last a few years beyond that. Good wine but I’m not sure about the price tag for this to be good value.
91 points. AUD $59
2009 rk Shiraz- Beechworth, Victoria
Very young with lots of inky blueberries. Less rich but better proportioned than the previous vintage. Lighter bodied and really well balanced.
Will gain weight in 2 years no doubt and look impressive in 5 years.
Nice as a bistro wine but again, the price comes with a question mark.
Very likeable and deliciously smooth (like a good Victorian Pinot!).
92 points. AUD $59
Unfortunately no Giaconda Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon or Estate Shiraz were available at this tasting.
More about this winery here:
http://www.giaconda.com.au/giaconda.htm
Cheers,
Attila
