Appellation Australia

What may be considered wacky to one person, is normal to another. So I figured I better find something pretty unusual. Fortunately for me, Stella Bella Wines had decided on the name “Suckfizzle Augusta” to denote wines from their single-vineyard Margaret River, Western Australian red and white blends.Fast Facts: Country: Australia Region: Margaret River, Western Australia Winemaker: Janice McDonald Variety: 65% Sauvignon Blanc, 35% Semillon Closure: Cork Oak: 15 months in new French oak RRP: $40 AU

Story behind the name: “The name, Suckfizzle is drawn from the unique tales of Rabelais (1490 to 1553), the 15th century French monk and medico turned writer and his infamous character the Great Lord Suckfizzle.

Whilst earthy and a touch coarse, Rabelais� tales were in truth a parody of medieval literature and learning. Yet apart from this �tongue in cheek�� nature, Rabelais writings could be enjoyed for their sheer mastery of language – no need to identify a possible meaning or association of every phrase, quotation or place name.”

Website: http://www.stellabella.com.au/suckfizzle/
Email: wines@stellabella.com.au

Tasting Note: A vibrant, vivid straw yellow in colour.

Powerful aromas of lemony, toasted oak leaped out at once before a amazingly complex and invigorating burst of citrus, tropical fruits, gooseberries and just a slight hint of a grassy Sauvignon Blanc character emerged triumphant over the oak. I don’t think I’ve tried a white wine with quite so much oak influence before, but Suckfizzle’s fruit somehow delivered the goods against the odds.

I sat with the glass in my hand swirling, sniffing, inhaling while trying to unravel the unique elements of the nose of this wine for a good five minutes before I felt ready to take a leap into even a small taste.

I almost hesitantly took my first sip, unsure of what to expect. Once again there was that strong, toasty, lemony oak, but it was the slightest bit more subdued on the palate giving the citrus and gooseberry flavours a chance to shine through. The complexity on the palate was fascinating and the long, lingering finish gave another chance to experience the elaborate complexity of this wine.

Relaxing on the balcony on a fine Australian summer night, with a cool breeze blowing, a spectacular fireworks display and an even more spectacular Australian wine, happy 217th Birthday Australia indeed.

Score: Grab some if you can get it, it’s a fine example of what the Margaret River can do with this blend of varieties. 91 points with a value rating of Good.

See “How to interpret my scores” for an explanation of how the above scores were reached.

In conclusion: Thankyou to Pim from Chez Pim for organising this edition of WBW. I’m looking forward to reading all the other contributions.