Winemaker Notes
The wine shows its youthfulness with purple/red tinges on the rim. Sweet red berry fruits with some lifted oak characters dominate the bouquet. The medium weight palate reflects the bouquet, with its red fruits and soft oak flavours; sufficent acid and tannins provide structure and balance without being overbearing. The softer tannins and minimal use of oak, approx 10mths in total with 10% being new oak, makes for a fresher earlier drinking style. However this wine can safely be cellared for 2--4 years depending on the amount of bottle age you desire. 15.0% Alc/Vol Drink now or cellar for more complexity.
Professional Ratings
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.