Christmas and New Year are now but a distant memory and it really is back to porridge.  As 2019 sets in here are our Staff Picks to get you through those long evenings.  We recommend that these are paired with some delicious food and good friends.

 
Aidan
Pask Small Batch Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
A surprising wine, reminiscent of a classic left bank Bordeaux from the Medoc. Great tannic structure and acidity make this the perfect match for a Sunday roast of beef or lamb. Lower in alcohol and oak influence than other new world cabernets from the US or South Africa, this cabernet from New Zealand’s Gimblett Gravels is well-structured and packed full of dark fruits, leather and floral notes. An elegant Cabernet that can be drunk now but will cellar really well.
 
Jane
Pike and Joyce Sirocco Chardonnay 2016
I have always been a fan of Pikes Riesling so was excited about the arrival of their Chardonnay, particularly as Adelaide Hills is my favourite Australian region for Chardonnay. The wine does not disappoint. With 9 months in French oak it is perfectly poised: rich and creamy, with notes of peach  and cashew yet balanced by citrus acidity and a long lean finish.  We all need homely, comfort food to see us through January so try it with roast chicken or fish pie.
 
Alex
Domaine de La Chauviniere Clos Les Montys 2017
A recent arrival to JN and a firm customer favourite already; this offering from the esteemed Jérémie Huchet is harvested slightly later than normal to give a wine that is more phenolicly ripe resulting in a fleshier, rounder and richer Muscadet than one would typically expect. With the hallmark flavours of green apple, lemon & lime, seashell and sea salt propped up by a leesy, medium-body and a sherbety hint of pétillance, this wine works perfectly as an aperitif or as a companion to shellfish and seafood in general.
 
Sean
Andre Perret Saint Joseph 2016
Granite slopes (my soil of choice) at the northern limit of St-Joseph (my appellation of choice.)  Brisk and vibrant in style, not supremely tannic nor overly extracted.  Full of energy and zest.  Violets,  black cherry with raspberry and bright berry acidity finishing with just a whisper of oak.  A beautiful and elegant wine for fans of both Pinot Noir and Syrah.
 
Stephen
Voyage de Lanessan 2012
This is a wine that I first tried on our trip to Bordeaux in 2018. A blend of Cabernet, Merlot and Petit Verdot, this wine has great freshness with black fruit and sweet spice aromas. Slick tannins which adds great roundness to the finish. A perfect wine for any stew or roast beef dish.
A perfect example of Bordeaux as it should be.
 
Taryn
Quinta Soalheiro Allo 2017
In the dead of winter, this wine is a taste of pure Portuguese sunshine. This tall bottle never fails to bring back memories of golden light, long evenings and delicious warmth. It’s lemony Alvarinho and fresh Loureiro is a perfect blend, balanced and elegant yet vibrant all at the same time.  Plus, being a lower alcohol wine, it’s all the better with January sensibilities kicking in.