These three Second Take releases from Yelland & Papps have been some of the most exciting wines I’ve encountered so far this year. And, on a much more superficial note, I really like the labels.
15% whole bunch, 16 days on skins, ten months in barrel – 45% French oak (18% new) and 55% American oak (4% new). You don’t need to worry about the tech specs to enjoy the wine but enthusiasts will enjoy knowing a little more about how it’s made. It bears some resemblance to more standard Barossa Shiraz but it has much greater interest in terms of texture and flavour. Let the initial hit of vanilla oak wash over you and dissipate in the glass and you’ll find out what this wine is all about. Wild notes of hay and Lucerne pellets join blackberries and plums with licorice and earth buried within a layered palate. Some molasses, meat and spice for good measure. Grainy tannin massages itself into the mouth. Go there. 92+ Very Good
Region: Barossa
Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $40
Tasted: March 2013