May Top 4.

I managed to try some cracking wines in May. I haven't included any from the Shiraz Expo at Dan Murphy's, because there were just too many good wines to review in any detail. You can read my thoughts on my favourites from the Shiraz Expo here.

This months top 4 represent some old favourites, and some solid proven performers. 3 wines from the Canberra District, and 1 from the Hunter Valley.

Thomas Wines Braemore Semillon 2010 ($28) - Available online

The Braemore Semillon has been a longstanding favourite of mine. The perfect Hunter semillon, fresh, young, vibrant with refreshing lemon and lime on the palate. The nose is very withdrawn, but the subtle cut lemon scent is evident.

There is an intense concentration of flavours and a bright minerality to the back palate. The acidity is in perfect balance with the fruit. Semillon done this well will always eclipse riesling in my book - if you haven't yet been ingraciated into the semillon club, this is the bottle to do it. 94 points.

Helm Canberra District Preium Riesling 2010 ($37) - Available at Dan Murphy's

This was enjoyed at the summit of Mount Taylor on a bright, clear afternoon waiting for the sun to set. Perfect location, and a pretty special wine to match.

The Helm Premium is succulent and intensely acidic with citrus flavours, and a finish that goes on forever. Blanace is impeccable, and the wine is nicely dry, not requiring the residual sugar to balance the lack of fruit flavours. Highly recommended, and a reflection of the quality of the 2010 vintage in Caberra. 93 points.

Collector Marked Tree Red 2010 ($28) - Available at Plonk and Vintage Cellars

Following on from the exalted 2009 vintage (recieving an insane 97 points from James Halliday), the 2010 is again a fantasically priced Shiraz.

Spicey and plummy, but not jammy or heavy, the nose is delicate, also giving whisps of creamy vanilla oak. The balance is wonderful, with the oak, tannins and fruit in perfect harmony. A small peppery note, and a decently long finish complete a fairly attractive picture. 92 points.

 Brindabella Hills Brio (Sangiovese) ($25) - Available from the cellar door

A wine that delivers more than it promises. The colour is a bit thin, purply-crimson, and light. From here on though, the experience is powerful, and flavoursome.

Incredible aromas of sour cherry and spice. The palate is vibrant, yet savoury, bursting with rich black fruit and a nice long finish. Suffers only from a touch of astringency that isn't in total balance. 91 points.