Since 1999 the Meerea Park Alexander Munro Shiraz has come from the Ivanhoe vineyard in Pokolbin. The 2010 incorporates 30% whole bunches and is matured in French oak barriques – half of which are new – for 22 months.
That wood is rather prominent, partially because it’s a youngster but also no doubt related to the decrease in fruit intensity compared to 2007 and 2009 vintages. A French vanilla and chocolate framework. Spicy with musky florals, red earth, blackberry, licorice and dark cherry. Intriguing notes of animale and juniper as well. Brisk acidity works in tandem with fine-grained tannin. It’s not entirely cohesive just yet but I suspect that it will come together over the next few years. 92+
Region: Hunter Valley
Alcohol: 14.0%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $75
Tasted: August 2013
Price is getting VERY steep these days. No doubting the long-term aging capacity, of course. I’ve not bought any since the 2009, though I did buy the 2010 Hell Hole – I didn’t like the Terracotta (too obviously white winey for me). In any case, I think I like a more vibrant, brighter and berry-filled Hunter red these days. You should try the Tinklers U&I Shiraz 2011 (also reviewed favourable by MikeB).
MC
It is. That’s not to say the wine doesn’t deliver or that it won’t sell. I hope it will and tend to believe that old vine Hunter Shiraz is, in a sense, underpriced. I guess the issue lies with what else is available for less. I’m thinking of the De Iuliis Steven Vineyard Shiraz in particular. Totally different stylistically but more to my personal tastes. I’ll see if I can get a hold of the Tinklers U&I. And agree, white grape influence strong in the Terracotta – but most people know that’s usually less of an issue for me