On The Grapevine

with David Ellis

Yes, Prime Minister, a Queenslander in your cellar

Good enough for the PM - Crane Wines 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon.

Queensland winemaker, Bernie Cooper, has just done his bit for his State: his 2002 Crane Wines Cabernet Sauvignon has been selected to join the chosen few in the Prime Minister's cellar at The Lodge, and for State functions at Parliament House.

"We're understandably delighted as for a boutique maker its not only great for our label, but it's further recognition of the growing importance of the Queensland wine industry," Bernie says.

The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon is big full-bodied dry red, with loads of berry flavour and a classic choc-mint velvety finish; it's currently available only from the cellar door at $29 a bottle and will go ideally with eye fillet, or a good cheese platter.

Crane Wines is the oldest winery in the South Burnett wine region. You'll find them at 162 Hayden's Road, Booie, about 10km north-east of Kingaroy; their cellar door is open seven days from 10am to 4pm.

Phone Bernie on (07) 4162 7647 to order a few at this price, including a couple for the cellar, as this is one of those gutsy reds that will enjoy anything from seven to 10 more years in slumber.

Another for the cellar: Durif is one of those big meaty reds that make great drinking fresh with dishes like rib-eye fillet, or to put away for a few year's slumber. Kingston Emperic Selection 2003 Durif at $18.99 is one for either now or 10 years down the track: powerful, gutsy and simply very more-ish.