The new Wirra Wirra Scrubby Rise wines arrived on my doorstep this week, reminding me that I hadn’t tasted or reviewed this blend of 98% Shiraz and 2% Viognier. So I thought I best rectify that straight away.
First of all, don’t be scared by the “V” word. It’s sensitively used, mostly just adding musky florals and textural nous. The rest is essence of McLaren Vale Shiraz. Plums, red fruited streaks, dark chocolate, iodine and sweet clove oak. Quite juicy and eminently scoffable with raspy tannin tidying up the finish. Take a closer look and you’ll see more spice and a bit of earthen depth. Friendly and talkative but certainly not a bore. 91 Good – Very Good
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $24
Tasted: September 2012
2% is a sensible addition – allowing it to be seen and not heard perhaps.
Stu – In warmer climates I tend to agree. Obviously Clonakilla et al in cooler climates make a different case. Interesting to note the percentage of Viognier in recent Catapults:
09 – 3%
08- 5%
07 – 5.4%
I think Wirra Wirra are on the right track. d’Arenberg’s “The Laughing Magpie” is a McLaren Vale SV I have trouble with. Last vintage (2009) included 8%. Too much for me. And, as much as I enjoy d’Arenberg’s wines in general, I’ve never had any real fondness for the Magpie – young or with age.