Latest Reviews

2006 Viognier

'All the latest releases from the Murphy family at Trentham on the Murray are deserving of slurping attention, including the '07 chardonnay and '06 merlot. But for sheer varietal definition, let alone drinking pleasure, look for the viognier. It has the fresh apricot character so typical of the variety. Some suggestions of lemon and peach add interest to the overall bouquet and flavour. Remarkable character and quality, given the relatively modest price.'

5 STARS - UNBEATABLE

- Paddy Kendler, Herald Sun, 1 July 2008.

2007 Sauvignon Blanc

'Sauvignon blanc invariably performs its best in cooler climates, but Trentham on the Murray has often been capable of defying conventional wine wisdom. Such is the case here. A light-bodied dry white with mild passionfruit and grassy flavours, crisp and clean, very refreshing when served icy cold and more than fair value for money. A versatile warm-weather wine.'

- Paddy Kendler, Herald Sun, 8 April 2008.

2007 'La Famiglia' Pinot Grigio

'The richer pinot gris style and the lighter pinot grigio (same grape) comes in many guises in 21st-century Australia. Some are ugly, but this example succeeds. Pear and spice-cupboard aromas are inviting, there's soft flavour and a tangy counterpoint of firm acidity for freshness.'

- Ralph Kyte-Powell, The Age 'Epicure', 15 April 2008.

2006 Pinot Noir

'This keenly priced medium bodied Murray Valley red shows good varietal characteristics of dark cherry and strawberry fruit on the nose and palate with silky tannins to finish. Enjoy over the next year or two with duck, game, pasta or mushroom dishes or pan-fried Atlantic salmon.'

- Mike Frost, Courier Mail, March 2008.

'Don't measure this Murray Valley pinot against the benchmarks from the Yarra Valley or Mornington. It's not in that class, but nor is it in that far more lofty price range. Just think of it as an easy-drinking, light-bodied, soft summer red ideally suited to casual luncheons, lazy afternoon cheese platters or balmy evening barbecues. As is so often the case in the world of wine, simplicity can be surprisingly satisfying.'

- Paddy Kendler, Herald Sun 'CityStyle', 5 February 2008.

'This Murray Valley wine usually challenges the perception that pinot noir only belongs in cooler regions. Perhaps the '06 isn't as varietally distinctive as previous vintages but it's still good. There are red berry, spice and cedar aromas ahead of a fresh, soft, juicy palate. It finishes long and easy.'

- Ralph Kyte-Powell, The Age 'Epicure', 4 March 2008.

2007 Murphy's Lore Chardonnay

"An unwooded style with attractive notes of spice, peach and nettle, tied together on the palate with citrus acidity. Plenty of flavour but not so much as to drive away those unsure of chardies. The zippy freshness is what makes the wine. An excellent-value summer quaffer."

- Ken Gargett, Courier-Mail, 8 January 2008.

'The Murphy's Lore range has invariably offered good-value quaffing in recent years and thoroughly deserves the much-improved new labelling created for the latest releases. The chardonnay is a soft, somewhat broad style with plenty of ripe peach flavour and may be enjoyed with or without food.'

- Paddy Kendler, Herald Sun 'CityStyle', 25 December 2007.

2007 'La Famiglia' Moscato

'There are still some summer days left - and this is the perfect lunchtime or early evening wine; low in alcohol (6 per cent), fresh and frisky with some lovely cleansing acid on the finish. It's floral and decidedly sweet on the palate, which won't suit those who like their wines bone dry, but it's a lot of fun. Serve chilled, serve young.'

- Winsor Dobbin, Sun Herald, 23 March 2008.