The French appellation of Quarts de Chaume will not be particularly well known to most Australian consumers, but some wonderful late harvest/botrytis chenin blancs are made in this Loire Valley region. It recently sent a worldwide press release announcing the success of its campaign against a decision made in February 2007 to grant appellation status to AOC Chaume, which, the press release explained, was a small AOC of sweet wines from Anjou. It must have been an easy case for Quarts de Chaume to argue.

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Printhie Wines released the first white wine from Orange, its 2009 Sauvignon Blanc in June. Orange is having a golden run with all of its wines, sauvignon blanc being the most successful. Printhie winemaker Drew Tuckwell explained: ‘At a time when grape contracts are decreasing, it’s a good feeling to be out talking to growers about suppling more fruit. These new growers have given us more fruit plus greater complexity and flavour profiles in the wine due to the broader range of vineyards at different elevations. The 2009 Sauvignon Blanc has maintained its typical aromatic intensity and lively palate structure.’ Printhie wines are distributed throughout NSW by Printhie Wines, in Victoria by Westwood Wines, Queensland by TBW Liquor Specialists and in the ACT by Z4. The wines are also available online at www.printhiewines.com.au.