August 2011

Passion is an over-used and often superfluous term. As I listen to Ailsa, proprietor of Henrick's Bar and Bistro in Bruntsfield, describe her journey into the wonderful world of wine her enthusiasm is simply evident.

This passion was spotted by the head of St Hallett's vineyard in the iconic Barossa Valley who met Ailsa at a wine show some years ago and immediately invited her to work on the 2007 vintage. It was this adventure that ultimately became the inspiration for the current wine list at Henrick's.

Ailsa worked the whole process from picking and crushing the grapes through to barrelling and tasting and now Henrick's bar is becoming a bit of a flagship in the UK for the St Hallett's range. For example, they have UK exclusivity for Shiraz St Hallett Garden of Eden, Barossa 2008 (£18.95). I tasted three wines with Ailsa White

First up was Poacher's Blend (St. Hallett's, Barossa, 2008), which is made from a mix of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Riesling grapes. Lots of minerality ensures it is crisp and refreshing but it also has body. We thought it would complement the Henrick's pan-fried monkfish cheeks, slowly simmered in a white wine, rosemary and shallot sauce, served with a pea and herb risotto (£8.50). Rose

Next the Grenache - Shiraz Rose (St. Hallett’s, Barossa, 2010). I was a little suspicious of this one as I usually like my rose to be of the light salmon-coloured Provencal-style. This wine was almost fluorescent pink but it was surprisingly dry and I loved it - lots of summer berries but also hints of bubblegum and a refreshing acidity. Pair it with chicken Kiev (£8.50): tortilla crusted chicken breast, filled with a rich garlic & cheese sauce and served on a potato and cucumber salad, with crispy noodles and quail eggs. Red

To finish, a Grenache - Shiraz - Touriga (St. Hallett’s, Barossa, 2008). Soft, smooth Grenache, followed by dark berries from the Shiraz and juicy blackcurrants courtesy of the Touriga. An intense, lush wine filled with Aussie sunshine. A perfect Autumnal wine for Henrick’s beef stroganoff (£8.95). Note: Henrick's use a Vintori to pour their wine. This is an award-winning wine gadget that aerates wine immediately.