I popped these Scarce Earth wines (two from Chapel Hill, two from Coriole) in with a number of other 2012 Vale Shiraz for (blind) tasting purposes. The lesser influence of oak was easily identifiable yet not always a plus as far as I’m concerned. The wines were made for reasons that extend beyond the realm of quality alone, so this is not a slight on them. Nonetheless, I’m becoming more and more aware that the reduction of oak doesn’t necessarily make a better Vale Shiraz. Intervention isn’t always a bad word.
Jubey blackberry and mulberry with hints of leather and raw meat. Faint whispers of potpourri. The tannins are slightly ferrous and lie a little flat on the palate although they do stretch out. Spice is minimal. 91
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 14.1%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $65
Tasted: June 2014
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 14.1%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $65
Tasted: June 2014