Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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The Somm Journal
Aromas of plum-kissed violets are mirrored on the palate. White pepper persists through vivid notes of black cherry, dark chocolate, and cinnamon as a flow of velvet-lined tannins creates a creamy mouthfeel. Aged ten months in French oak, the 2017 vintage may be one of the most lithe, aromatic, and elegant yet for this label.
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Tasting Panel
Aromas of plum-kissed violets are mirrored on the palate, where white pepper persists through vivid notes of black cherry, dark chocolate, and cinnamon. A flow of velvet-lined tannins creates a creamy mouthfeel. Aged ten months in French oak, this may be one of the most lithe, aromatic, and elegant vintages yet for this label.
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James Suckling
The cooler vintage can be read clearly here with leafy and floral tones as well as super fresh light fruit aromas. The palate has intense red fruit flavors that are peppery, spicy, bright and vivid. Succulent finish. Medium body. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
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Wine Spectator
Dried violet and talcum powder hints add aromatic detail to the polished pomegranate, plum and clove flavors, set on a juicy and dense frame. Finds plenty of harmony and charm on the finish. Shiraz and Grenache.
Marked by an unmistakable deep purple hue and savory aromatics, Syrah makes an intense, powerful and often age-worthy red. Native to the Northern Rhône, Syrah achieves its maximum potential in the steep village of Hermitage and plays an important component in the Red Rhône Blends of the south, adding color and structure to Grenache and Mourvèdre. Syrah is the most widely planted grape of Australia and is important in California and Washington. Sommelier Secret—Such a synergy these three create together, the Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre trio often takes on the shorthand term, “GSM.”
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.