Winemaker Notes
2017 Clarry’s GSM is deep purple-black in color. Bounding from the glass are incredible aromatics of juicy berries, dark cherry, rose petal, milk chocolate, musk, clove spice and fresh licorice. The intense bouquet continues to the bountiful palate. It is full, rounded and loaded with plenty of dark fruits. It is charmingly seamless with extremely fine tannins adding structure and texture. Limited maturation in seasoned barrels has added complexity while respecting the fruit purity that is the hallmark of this wine. The bright and flavor some fruits extend well into the lengthy finish. Clarry’s is an approachable, fruit-driven and opulent GSM that is best enjoyed now or over the next five years.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Blueberry essence, dried hibiscus, dried orange rind and some citrus. Medium to full body, fine and succulent tannins and a juicy finish.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
Historically and presently the most important wine-producing region of Australia, the Barossa Valley is set in the Barossa zone of South Australia, where more than half of the country’s wine is made. Because the climate is very hot and dry, vineyard managers work diligently to ensure grapes reach the perfect levels of phenolic ripeness.
The intense heat is ideal for plush, bold reds, particularly Shiraz on its own or Rhône Blends. Often Shiraz and Cabernet partner up for plump and powerful reds.
While much less prevalent, light-skinned varieties such as Riesling, Viognier or Semillon produce vibrant Barossa Valley whites.
Most of Australia’s largest wine producers are based here and Shiraz plantings date back as far as the 1850s or before. Many of them are dry farmed and bush trained, still offering less than one ton per acre of inky, intense, purple juice.