Spring is in full bloom as are the Grampians, but no matter where you are, a glass or two of wine may be exactly what you needed. We asked owner of Pomonal Estate, Pep Atchison, to help wine lovers across the country pick the perfect drop from the Grampians wine region this season.
Which varietals should we be enjoying in spring?
Something fresh and crisp, like a Riesling, Sparkling Riesling, Rosé, Pinot Gris or a light-bodied Chardonnay. These wines pair best with seasonal menus and warmer weather.
What are your springtime wine recommendations from the Grampians region?
Well of course it’s hard to beat our award-winning Pomonal Estate 2020 Sparkling Riesling. It’s perfect to sip on soaking up the sunshine because of its fruity undertones of lime, talc and lemon blossom.
Other wines to indulge in are The Great Entertainer Prosecco by Seppelt, Montara’s 2017 Grampians Old Vines Single Vineyard Riesling and Fallen Giants 2019 Rosé is also a spring essential. Aficionados will be thrilled with a Grampians Estate 2019 Pinot Gris which offers a crisper Grigio style of wine, and wine lovers will find that holiday feeling with a fun and fabulous Mountainside Wines Shiraz spritzer pack, available at their cellar door or online.
What food would you pair with the varietals you've listed above?
Light, fresh dishes featuring local produce are always a popular choice from our menu, which we match with our wine, beer and cider range.
In and out of our cellar door we suggest pairing crisp Rieslings with delicate or raw fish. Pinot Gris is perfect with Asian cuisine, chicken, salmon and tuna. Rosé tends to match well with young, milky cheeses and personally, I can’t go past a glass of sparkling with a dozen oysters.
In your opinion, what are the key characteristics of a good wine and, specifically, the wines you recommend above?
Winemakers and grape growers are blessed here in the Grampians because of our cool climate conditions, ideal for producing spicy Shiraz and other varietals like Riesling. Look for aromas, taste and textures that are perfect for long, slow, spring sipping. White wines this season will exhibit bright, fruity aromas, such as apple and pear, but at the end of the day, simply choose a wine you enjoy drinking!
Tell us about your beer and cider?
Our beer and cider are all about offering an alternative to our wines so guests can select from a wide range of beverages to enjoy with family and friends. The ginger beer is made from rice malt and real ginger, it’s also gluten free. It reminds me of the ginger beer my grandma used to make and is also our top seller.
Any exciting plans for Pomonal Estate coming up?
We have plans for an exclusive degustation evening. Our chefs will use local produce to create a menu that will match perfectly with our wines, beers and ciders. Throughout the evening our winemaker, our chef, and my husband, who is the brewer, will talk through the menu.
We have also just launched a pick up and drop off services we’re calling “Hitch A-Ride” where for only $15 a person, $20 per couple or $25 for a family, we’ll do the driving for you.
