Giant Steps, Sexton Vineyard Chardonnary 2006, Yarra Valley ($16)

Lovely stuff, smooth floral notes, with a very slight and appealing toastiness. A hint of austerity coming from the right amount opf acidity. An absolute bargain and a wonderful drink

Domaine Vincent Paris, Saint Joseph 2007, Rhone, France ($45)

And wham, in this came. A total mindshift was required from our standard fare to deal with this. On the nose wet stone and later soil. No fruit on the nose whatsoever. Youth gave this wine a race of acidity on the mouth. Needs 2 hours plus to air. A very mineral red and a total detour from our norm.

Chateau de Sergries 2006, Cotes-du-Rhone, France ($25)

A wine to ponder and enjoy as it constantly evolved in the glass. Sometimes cigar box, sometimes dark fruit, and at one point a touch of thyme, but always a silken mouthfeel. Arguably a little thin on the mid-palate. One to contemplate and enjoy with wine fan friends.