Ballandean Late Harvest Sylvaner 2019
- $40
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Silvaner, or the grape more commonly known in recent times as sylvaner, is primarily grown in Alsace (France) and Germany. This variety has a rich history and has been popular during the 20th century. However, with the rising popularity of varieties such as riesling and grüner veltliner, we are seeing less and less being made, either as dry or sweet wines.
Sylvaner in Australia is a rarity and Ballandean Estate is one of only 8 that are known for their “liquid gold’ Sylvaner. It is a sensitive variety that requires a little more TLC than other grapes. However, it is no wonder that this Granite Belt “strange bird” variety remains popular given the rave reviews it has received since the first vintage in 1985. Over the decades the Ballandean Estate Sylvaner have received an impressive 15 trophies, 7 gold, 22 silver and 54 bronze awards.
This delicate drop is only harvested in pristine conditions, even a late rainfall prior to harvest can damage and reduce grape quality in the final stages before harvesting. The key to making this liquid gold at Ballandean is chilling the pressed juice down to minus 2 degrees. This process creates icicles which are then removed leaving only the highly concentrated juice giving intense flavour and sweetness. Unlike other dessert wines that can be sugary or sticky, the goal here is to create a fresh, crisp riesling-like wine made to be matched with your favourite cheeses.
This 2019 vintage has been described as the best growing season in a decade. While I don’t have a sweet tooth, a decadent dessert wine is my guilty pleasure or chosen digestif post dinner. I enjoyed this over the recent Easter holidays with family as an adult Easter treat – this sensuous sylvaner was a hit. Even if you are not generally a dessert wine drinker, this will turn the tables. A whiff of lemon tart yet gentle acidity comes through with a luscious honey-like texture. Freshly picked red orchid apples then apple stew aromas with both nose and palate pairing together seamlessly. Though this is a perfect drink now wine, it is also one to stock up on and cellar up to 10 years to develop heightened and intense flavours.
