I’ve never heard of Eloquesta before but winemaker Stuart Olsen has made me sit up and listen (or taste, as the case may be) with this quirky little number that’s just brimming with freshness and vitality. And if you thought that blending Shiraz and Petit Verdot was a little odd then adding some Viognier, as Stuart has done, should further arouse your interest. Mind you, making good wine isn’t all about eccentricity and twists – it has to come together in the bottle. This, my friends, does precisely that. Give it a good decant for now or stash some away f0r another eight or so years.
Vivid red and black fruits…almost crunchy in its berry-ness. It smells gorgeous with elegant leafy qualities amidst hints of violets. Chocolatey oak has a cameo appearance – it’s there and it matters but it’s very much a bit player. There’s some charred meat complexity too. The acidity seems a trifle formidable at first but it settles with time and enhances the wine when it comes to food pairing. What’s more, it feels natural and right. It seems a little more linear than layered but perhaps that’s because its line is so convincing and immaculate. Exciting and delicious. My favourite combination. Mudgee has a new hero. Very Good – Excellent
Region: Mudgee
Alcohol: 14.0%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $28
Tasted: March 2012