Variety: spice for the wine drinker

Whilst the Aussie wine industry is dominated by a few big players, there are many small, independent wine producers offering an abundance of great wines to those who want to explore a little. Ciavarella Oxley Estate is an example of a small (tiny, really, in the scheme of things), family operated winery that makes a good range of wines, all in small quantities, that are worth seeking out. Whilst they have long been known to those who visit Victoria’s North East, the winery is only just starting to make in-roads into the Melbourne retail market.

The winery is located at Oxley (on the “ Snow Road” that heads off the Hume Freeway towards Bright and the snowfields) not far from Wangaratta. Cyril, Jan and Tony Ciavarella undertake all facets of the grapegrowing and winemaking. What started as a ‘family hobby’ has turned into a highly regarded winery that is now a popular destination for visitors to the King Valley and the highly regarded Milawa Gourmet Region.

The wines the Ciavarella family produces show true varietal character and are of consistently high quality. Their range is extensive for such a small operation, including crisp dry whites, full bodied reds, a luscious dessert style and a sought after white port that is well worth chasing.

2001 Ciavarella Oxley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet sauvignon is a variety that typically rewards bottle ageing. This example from Ciavarella Oxley Estate is no exception, and at 5 years, is starting to really show its stuff. It is complex and loaded with ripe berry fruit flavours, dark chocolate atop integrated French oak. The generous palate is supported by a mass of fine tannins. A nicely balanced wine, with everything in the right place. The wine drinks well now, matched to full flavoured meat dishes (try a barbecued steak or marinated rack of lamb) but will continue to develop in the bottle for those who care to cellar it further.