Time to take what I call the radical middle-ground. I’ve read some cringeworthy generalisations about 2011. One sommelier suggested avoiding all Australian reds, another Master Sommelier asked what we were all on about when some of us spoke of poor year. Most Sommeliers have been much more sensible and helpful.
The media has by and large been highly critical but I can’t think of one writer who hasn’t praised a wine from a rain effected region. The truth is there’s been a lot of shit and an encouraging number of wines that have performed very well. A few don’t even taste clearly of the conditions of their conception but most represent the challenges – some in a positive manner, others less so. These are wines that will suit some more than others. Given this situation it might be time to stop defending the vintage and stop attacking it…at least for a few years.
To the wine. Swampy notes and tomato-like acidity are the big issues. Confected but with a mulchy character that doesn’t mesh at all. Unsophisticated tannin and little length. Not a great wine regardless of the year in question. 84
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 14.0%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $15
Tasted: September 2013