When I first tasted this blind at the Voyager Estate Masterclass 2012 it stood out for a good reason. It was surrounded by wines that exuded character. Shouted it even. A Glaetzer-Dixon Mon Père Shiraz 2010 (my pick of the Shiraz bracket, Jimmy Watson winner in 2011 and incorporating 0.8% Pinot Gris which seemed quite obvious but likeable to me), the Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier 2010 and a bretty Cornas - the Domaine du Coulet Les Billes Noires 2009. The Voyager Estate 2010 seemed so composed by way of contrast. So comfortable with itself. And so it should be.
Voyager don’t use whole bunch – the stalks don’t lignify adequately apparently – and whilst there’s 1% Viognier in here, I couldn’t pick it. As with their excellent 2010 Chardonnay, they’ve scaled back the new oak too. Just 26%. It’s a move in a positive direction, emphasising the quality of the fruit they work with and achieving greater balance and harmony. Fresh blackberry and cherry fruits, some brambly edges and a suggestion of clove and pepper spice. Maybe even a little floral too. Medium bodied and elegant, I found this compelling and extremely tasty. 94 Excellent
Region: Margaret River
Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $38
Tasted: September 2012