It’s time for the fortune tellers to go into overdrive, bringing you their zodiac predictions for the Lunar New Year! The Chinese zodiac evolved out of the belief that the year of someone’s birth can tell a great deal about their personality, fortunes and love compatibility. We are going to try our luck pairing the ideal wine match for your Chinese zodiac sign today, hope you would find a lucky match from the 12 selections we currently offer!
The story behind the Chinese Zodiac stems from a long long time ago. Looking for animal guards, the Jade Emperor sent an immortal man to spread a message - the first 12 animals to cross the river and enter the Heavenly Gate shall be ranked in order of their arrival and have a zodiac year named after them. Each having their own unique characteristics which we will pair with fine wines as you read along.
Year of the Rat
Known as a quick-witted and resourceful early riser, the rat sets off early to race towards the Heavenly Gate. Unable to cross the swift river along the way, it waited until another animal, the Ox, came along. Jumping on top of the Ox’s ear, the rat was able to cross the river and dashed at first place towards the emperor. The versatile and kind rat would match perfectly with McHenry Hohnen Hazel’s Vineyard Zinfandel. Just like you, this wine is full of surprises. Not a one note pour but a burst of red fruit flavours, minted chocolate, sweet spice box and red liquorice. This medium bodied red boasts versatility and compatibility with a variety of dishes.
Year of the Ox
Diligent, dependable, strong and determined - the Ox is the strongest animal of the 12 zodiac signs. Known as “the good helper”, Oxes are generally goal driven, patriotic and family oriented.
Nothing screams strength like McHenry Hohnen Grenache Syrah Mataro. Fragrant from violets, fruity from mulberry and cherry confection, and kicking with lively myrtle pepper. Bold on the palate, this full-bodied wine leaves a strong and lasting impression to red wine drinkers.
Year of the Tiger
2022 is the year of the brave, competitive, and authoritative tiger. Your charm attracts confidence, making you a competent leader and a force that demands attention in any room you enter - much like the Myattsfield Durif. This boutique winemaker in Bickley Valley works on an individual vineyard and an individual varietal at a time, allowing time to solely focus on producing the best wine possible. The 2017 vintage received excellent 92 scores by Ray Jordan, delivering rich dark fruit flavours with a spicy edge. This unforgettable red pour will drink nicely now but will bloom beautifully in the cellar for up to 10 years.
Year of the Rabbit
Next to arrive is the clever rabbit. Too small to swim across the river, this gentle and elegant animal hopped through stepping stones and a floating log to reach the Jade Emperor. Delighted, he called the fourth zodiac year after the skillful fuzzy rabbit. If you enjoy elegant wines that are gentle on the palate, nothing beats Volcanic Hills Pinot Noir. This cool climate red evokes aromas of juicy ripe cherries, hints of plum and lifted notes of wild herbs and cocoa - elevating your dining experience without stealing the limelight away from what’s served on the table.
Year of the Dragon
Dragons are the most vital and powerful beasts of the Chinese Zodiac. The only celestial creature in the zodiac, it is a mythical figure with the physical characteristics of the earthly animals that cover the other 11 positions in the zodiac. Gifted with courage and intelligence, Dragons are challenge seekers and risk takers. Our Tyrian Clouds Shiraz share a lot in common with this magical creature. You are exciting and full of character much like this full bodied cool climate red.
Year of the Snake
You’re an enigma. Snakes are mysterious, complex and wise which makes you an exciting puzzle to unravel. McHenry Hohnen Hazel’s Vineyard BDX is an adventure in a bottle. This largely malbec dominant blend starts with lifted violets mixed with cranberries and blueberries and ends with exotic spices. The palate is voluminous and soft with ripe boysenberry and red currants complimenting the more savoury notes of black olive from the Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot components. Complex in the most beautiful way. Subtle use of fine French oak provides structure and length to this deliciously fragrant wine.
Year of the Horse
Horses are animated, active and energetic just like a McHenry Hohnen Rocky Road Chardonnay. This lively wine is a crowd favorite, the center of attention for it’s refreshing citrus quality and subtle toasted almond flavour that lingers on the finish. This food friendly white is the perfect bottle to bring in any occasion be it parties, meetings, sporting events or after concert bonding moments. Shop the wine
Year of the Goat
Working together with the rooster and the monkey, the goat cleared weeds along the path of their raft across the river. Known for their calm and gentle nature, goats share a lot in common with the sophisticated Tyrian Clouds Merlot. There's a beautiful purity that runs through this wine from Manjimup, with a heady bouquet from cassis, blackcurrant, pepper and herbaceous influences. The drop is smoothly textured and supple, framed with fine tannins making it perfect to pair with any classic meat dish!
Year of the Monkey
Playful, magnetic, and smart Monkeys are masters of wit and practical jokes. Their eccentric nature is much like the curious wine of Myattsfield Shiraz Mourvedre Viognier. This majestic blend of three grape varieties presents layers of almost naughty flavours to the palate. A punch of red fruit flavours and spice from Shiraz is balanced with Viognier aromatics and earthy characteristics from Mourvedre. Just like this red, you are a surprise in every sip.
Year of the Rooster
Not only are you the first one up every morning, you’re also courageous, hardworking and honest. Always showing off your stunning feathers, you’re a delight among the crowd which makes you the perfect match for the popular classic Tyrian Clouds Cabernet Sauvignon. This Cab is a full-bodied red cascading with red & blackberries, red apple and subtle cocoa with a touch of ripe tannins. One of the world’s most widely recognised red wine grape varieties. No one ignores this glass of wine, just like no one could ever ignore you.
Year of the Dog
People born in the Year of the Dog are loyal, kind, and honest. They care about their friends, but sometimes they'll bark at a stranger. So if you're a Dog person, or know someone who is, this lovely Rosé from Volcanic Hills is your perfect match. All day everyday this vibrant wine brings sunshine and summertime berries in every sip. Much like dogs, a glass of ice cold Rosé rarely lets you down, especially when you need it the most.
Year of the Pig
Last to arrive is the pig. People born in the year of the Pig are compassionate, generous and highly sociable. They love to help others, and always put the needs of others before their own. They have good manners, speak well, and devote themselves to goals they set their eyes on.
Sweet and refined, this zodiac would make a fine pairing with McHenry Hohnen Rolling Stone. McHenry Hohnen Rolling Stone represents the pinnacle of red wine production at McHenry Hohnen and is the most authentic expression of Hazel's Biodynamic Vineyard. Crafted from select parcels of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot, this drop is generous with flavour - we saved the very best for last.
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