The Drop: Wineism Albion

This month’s edition of The Drop takes us to Wineism in Albion, Brisbane, where locals come together to explore, sip and learn about wine in a way that feels relaxed, personal and just a little adventurous.

Founded by Ian and Liz Trinkle, with a passion for both wine and hospitality, Wineism isn’t your typical wine bar. While every bottle is carefully curated from the finest Australian and international vineyards. French, Spanish, Italian varietals and beyond, it’s the experience around the wine that sets the venue apart. From small plates to artisanal bites, the seasonal menu is designed to complement the wine, and everything on offer is something the team genuinely enjoys themselves.

As the day shifts, Wineism transforms into a hub for both casual sippers and serious wine lovers. Sommeliers and wine experts are on hand to guide guests through tastings, share insights, and foster connections with fellow enthusiasts. The bar becomes a place to linger, to learn, and to appreciate the story behind each bottle.

Whether you’re there for a casual afternoon glass, a thoughtfully paired plate, or one of Wineism’s engaging educational events, the venue offers a space where your wine journey can expand naturally, with hospitality at the heart of every pour.

Wine List

1. Crawford River Riesling 2024

WHY WE LOVE THIS WINE

Described by Ian as the “pound for pound the greatest Australian Riesling,” the 2024 Crawford River release shows exactly why it deserves the title. From its cool-climate home in Henty, Victoria, it carries the hallmark acidity the estate is known for, bright and pure, but never harsh, balanced by a gentle line of weight and texture. The aromatics sit in perfect harmony, classic citrus at the centre, lifted floral notes and a subtle hint of stone fruit. Nothing feels pushed or showy. It’s simply poised, refined and a reminder of what Australian Riesling can be when it’s made with precision and confidence.

TASTING NOTES

Lemon, Mineral, Grapefruit

Pair with

Kingfish crudo, Vietnamese lemongrass chicken, zucchini fritters, goats cheese or brie with honeycomb.

TASTING NOTES

Grapefruit, Lemon, White Flower, Oak

Pair with

Smoked trout with crème fraîche and dill, roast chicken with crispy skin and thyme, mushroom risotto or mild washed-rind cheeses.

2. Polperro Chardonnay 2023

WHY WE LOVE THIS WINE

Crafted straight from the Mornington Peninsular, Sam’s wines are all about balance, and his 2024 Chardonnay shows exactly how well he walks that line. He’s not afraid to use oak, but he never lets it dominate, here it plays a subtle supporting role to beautifully ripe fruit. The wine shows classic stone fruit and citrus, wrapped in a gentle weight and roundness, with just enough oak to bring shape and warmth without tipping into heaviness. It feels a little nostalgic, a nod to more traditional Chardonnay styles, yet refined enough to satisfy anyone wary of overt oak. This is the estate bottling (not the single vineyard), and offers impressive concentration, clarity and sheer drinkability.

3. Artuke Rioja Tempranillo 2024

WHY WE LOVE THIS WINE

Crafted by the brother-and-sister team Kiki and Arturo in Rioja, this Tempranillo is a masterclass in freshness and balance. Mostly stainless steel and concrete-aged, with no heavy oak, it offers a bright, approachable style that’s perfect for summer. The wine is alive with red fruits, think cherry, raspberry and a hint of strawberry, yet carries a subtle seriousness that keeps it interesting for seasoned palates. Light, energetic and easy to chill, it’s a Tempranillo that feels modern, vibrant and effortlessly drinkable, showcasing the potential of the up-and-coming Cera de Gredos region.

TASTING NOTES

Red Cherry, Redcurrant, Dried Herbs, Earth

Pair with

Roast lamb with rosemary and garlic, grilled vegetables with smoked paprika or semi-firm goats cheese.

TASTING NOTES

Red Cherry, Redcurrant, Dried Herbs, Earth

Pair with

Grilled lamb, charred peppers and eggplant, roast pork or goats cheese.

4. Maranones 'Marañones' Garnacha 2021

WHY WE LOVE THIS WINE

Marañones delivers one of the most vibrant, French-leaning expressions of Garnacha coming out of Spain today. Sourced from old vines high in the granite soils of the Gredos foothills, this wine shows incredible lift and purity. Whole-cluster fermentation and ageing in large old foudres and concrete give it clarity and finesse. Expect brambly blue and red fruit, candied floral notes and a delicate pink spice, think top-tier Morgon but with a distinctly Gredos accent.

5. Elio Altare Barolo 2021

WHY WE LOVE THIS WINE

Elio Altare Barolo captivates with its balance of elegance and intensity. Organically grown Nebbiolo from top Barolo villages creates a wine that’s fragrant with red berries, wild rose, licourice and spice. Its silky texture, warm palate and long, graceful finish make it both expressive and refined.

TASTING NOTES

Black Cherry, Rose, Red Cherry

Pair with

Truffle dishes, braised meats, mushroom-based plates, or aged cheeses.

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