Grampians 14% Screwcap $45
I thought I’d put the reviews of the new release Story wines side by side. Three Shirazes from one region, all made in tiny amounts…it made sense to taste them that way so I’ll follow in fashion with regard to tasting notes. The Sableux really grabbed my attention and, in terms of how these wines are drinking now, this is my favourite.
Originally supposed to be 2 single vineyard wines, the best barrels from Rice’s and Garden Gully Vineyards just seemed to look better as a blend. Sableux is from the french for ‘sandy’ and it is something that both sites share – sandier soil profiles that ripen a little quicker and hold less moisture
Plump Grampians plums with the requisite regional pepper and some raspberry compote sitting nicely on top of a vital bouquet. Florals too, although whether they are from the 40% whole bunch or the sites I am unsure. Juicy and fleshy on entry but the acidity works with poised tannin that is at once silty and a little stemmy to quickly give the just medium bodied palate a linear quality. It draws to a close with the help of some chocolate, nutmeg and soy.
A modern interpretation of the classical regional profile. Exuberant but possessing a delicacy which belies its extroverted bouquet. Don’t overwhelm it with too heavy a dish. I suspect it will age well too. Big wraps on this.
Winery website- http://thestorywines.blogspot.com/