2009 The Story Associates Shiraz

Grampians 13.5% Screwcap $22

The Story Wines entry level Shiraz has gone under a number of guises since its inception. At its best, it is more than just a bargain. I shared a bottle of the 2005 (“The Orphan”) last February and its freshness was remarkable, as was the quality of the wine.

I also had the chance to meet winemaker Rory Lane last year and taste through the excellent 2008 releases. He stated his intention to make sure the first tier wine always over delivered. The 2008 “Wilderness” Shiraz can still be found on retail shelves in Brisbane (Wine Experience, Cru). I’m not sure why. It’s a ridiculously good wine and a complete steal for around $20. I’ve got some stashed in my cellar and I’d strongly recommend seeking it out.

But we’re onto the 2009 now – new label, new name. Quirky. Stylistically though, it’s in the same mold. The emphasis is on purity of fresh fruit flavour. There’s a whole bowl of black, red and blue berries on show along with a generous twist of pepper. A spicy minx for sure. Whole bunch techniques are evident but not overwhelming, making themselves apparent mostly through a slight stalkiness in the fine tannin. Bright acidity is, as always, a feature. It’s medium bodied and wonderfully easy to drink.

It lacks a little of the quality of previous releases and I don’t think it will be quite as long lived but there’s still an enormous amount of value and pleasure on offer. Give it a decant at the moment. I suspect it will be a better wine given a bit more time to settle.

Winery website- http://thestorywines.blogspot.com/