Category Archives: Pyrenees

2011 Pyren Vineyard Broken Quartz Shiraz

It’s fair to say I haven’t been as critical of the rain affected 2011 South East Australian vintage as many others. Having said that, it was a tough year (the Hunter Valley aside) and only the better producers have made … Continue reading

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2009 Blue Pyrenees Midnight Cuvée

“…the best examples of estate grown Chardonnay grapes are handpicked under the light of the midnight moon to avoid the heat of the day. This allows for the grapes to be in optimum condition in addition to an increase in … Continue reading

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2012 Mitchell Harris Sauvignon Blanc Fumé

John Harris makes a mean Fumé. It’s uncompromising; one can’t help but admire the intent…and the execution. It smells of limes, gun smoke and herbs. A driving acid spine doesn’t take away from some handy textural nous with the entry … Continue reading

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2011 Mitchell Harris Mataro Grenache Shiraz

A tough vintage for Mitchell Harris to release its inaugural Mataro Grenache Shiraz blend. It hasn’t escaped unscathed. Plenty of mulchy, slightly green traits with red and purple fruit pushing its way through. Peppery and herbal without much depth. The finish … Continue reading

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2012 Mitchell Harris Rosé

Two regions, two grapes, one succesful Rosé. A blend of 65% Sangiovese and 35% Pinot Noir sourced from the Pyrenees and Macedon. Pale pink. Perky acidity encased in a pillowy, yielding mouthfeel with a satisfying phenolic tug at the end. … Continue reading

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2010 Quartz Hill Viognier

Much to like about the 2010 Quartz Hill Viognier. It’s unapologetically varietal without being gloopy and it’s got plenty of character. Ultimately it lacks the length, shape and definition for a higher rating but it’s still a fine effort. A musky … Continue reading

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2010 Quartz Hill Syrah

There’s some good gear being cranked out in the Pyrenees at the moment. Mitchell Harris, Mount Avoca, Pyren Vineyard and now these guys at Quartz Hill. The winemaker is Darrin Gaffy, the grapes are hand-picked, the ferments are hand plunged … Continue reading

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2008 Sabre by Mitchell Harris

Speccy labeling from the team at Mitchell Harris. Befits the wine, their first Sparkling release. Winemaker John Harris spent time plying his trade at Domaine Chandon and it shows in the confident expression in front of me. It’s a blend of 65% … Continue reading

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2010 Pyren Vineyard Yardbird Union

A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Malbec and 25% Petit Verdot. Very young but shows real promise. There’s a sense of refreshment and minerality that lifts this wine above the pack. Smells of raspberry jelly, plum jam, chewed pencils, wild herbs … Continue reading

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2011 Dominique Portet Fontaine Rosé

Tasted as part of a bracket of nine Rosés last week. Dominique Portet were one of the first producers to make a Rosé in the Yarra and it was certainly a significant wine when it came to my introduction to the style a number … Continue reading

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