2009 The Story Westgate Shiraz

Grampians 13.5% Screwcap $45

This is a remarkably different wine to Gary Mill’s more radical interpretation of the of the Westgate vineyard bottled under the Jamsheed label, yet both share an affinity which I find it difficult to put my finger on. Such is terroir? Anyway, I am beginning to feel quite attached to the site and the wines it produces.

The Story Westgate Shiraz is a touch taciturn on opening. Earthy and plummy, with lighter pitched red cherries and hints of blue fruits hovering above. I’d read that the acidity was down from 2008 (and I’ll be honest and say that the acid structure of the previous wine had captivated me). Rory Lane puts that down to drought accumulation. Given time to open up, it is more approachable than its predeccesor and the fruit flavours are allowed to express themselves more freely. They work seamlessly with the French oak on a palate that is soft without losing its more svelte charms. All in all, I’d say its still more cerebral and restrained than boisterous. A wine to ponder over the course of an evening.

The fine tannins are fascinating, appearing slightly marginal at first. On closer inspection they play more of a part than I initially thought, making their presence known late on the palate and carrying the finish in a pleasantly smudgy way.

There’s enough structure here to see it age well for a number of years but it is enjoyable in its youth and may hit its peak drinking window a little earlier than the previous release. I’d like to keep a keen eye on both over the next 7-10 years.

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