Once again, I’ll remark on how well Chapel Hill’s reds from the 2011 vintage have fared. This is a lighter, brighter and more savoury expression of Mourvèdre than we saw in 2009 and 2010 but it is physiologically ripe and very appealing in its own way.
A creamy overlay to the vital acidity with plenty of blueberry, black raspberry and plum flavour. Pepper takes precedence over Asian spice but there’s plenty of both to go round. Around the mid-palate the primary fruits take a back seat to brown leaf, teriyaki beef, nuts and bitter chocolate. There’s a hell of a lot going on actually. Tannins are grippy and ferrous although it does taper a bit on that bitter finish. A bit over medium-bodied and dangerously easy to drink. 89
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $30
Tasted: July 2013
An interesting review of a wine have had not experienced yet. In keeping with the Mouvedre theme, I highly recommend the 2009 Turkey Flat Mouvedre which is simply stunning. Lovely dark fruits without being “fruity” and an added dimension of earth/spice. Long, savoury finish too. Just for anyone wanting to hunt out other Mouvedre after this review.
Yep, I’ve had the 2009 Turkey Flat Mourvèdre David, and as you say it’s one worth seeking out. I reckon that “dark fruit without being fruity” aspect that you mention and the earthen/ferrous and spice notes are a big part of the variety’s allure when it’s made well in the Barossa and McLaren Vale (although there are some lighter fruited notes in this expression from Chapel Hill). I also enjoy the meatiness and structure that most good versions exhibit. I probably still prefer the grape as part of a blend…which is how I feel about Grenache as well. But I’m perhaps as obsessed with blends as the rest of Australia is with single varieties.