Category Archives: Shiraz

2006 Tyrrell’s Vat 9 Shiraz

Thought now was a good time to check in on the old 2006 Tyrrell’s Vat 9. It’s in good shape as expected. Structured by tangy (in a positive sense) acidity and the finest of drying tannin. Classy vanillin oak and … Continue reading

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2011 Printhie MCC Shiraz

Another success story from a troubled vintage. They are out there, and they’re a testament to the skills of the viticulturist and winemaker (Drew Tuckwell). Or sometimes just indicative of an appropriately situated site. Spicy and savoury with plenty of lively, … Continue reading

Posted in Orange, Shiraz, Syrah | Tagged | 2 Comments

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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2011 Under & Over Heathcote Shiraz

Pretty good value these Under & Over wines. The Chardonnay is the drawcard but this 2011 Heathcote Shiraz is fair drinking too. Somewhat generic sweet blackberry and plum aromas. The palate offers a more savoury aspect at times with a touch … Continue reading

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2008 Brand’s Laira Stentiford’s Shiraz

From vines planted 110 years ago. Has won gold medals at the Rutherglen, Cowra and Limestone Coast Shows. That ol’ rum and raisin nose. Prunes and currants, chocolate and vanilla. Stern, oaky tannin. Diesel power. The alcohol heat interrupts the … Continue reading

Posted in Coonawarra, Shiraz | 4 Comments

2010 Port Phillip Estate Serenne Shiraz

I don’t get to taste a lot of Mornington Peninsula Shiraz. I’m not sure a lot gets made. But this is a ripper. 15% whole bunches incorporated. It smells of blackberries, boysenberry, pan juices, terracotta, earth and florals. Shimmers with … Continue reading

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2011 Yelland & Papps Devote Shiraz Roussanne

My first taste of a Shiraz Roussanne blend came in the form of d’Arenberg’s The Wild Pixie 2008. This has an even larger Roussanne component of 15% and it’s actually the better wine. Flagrantly floral and outrageously perfumed. Purple fruits, … Continue reading

Posted in Barossa, Shiraz, Shiraz et al, Syrah, Syrah et al | Tagged | Comments Off

2012 Port Phillip Estate Salasso Rosé

Sometimes I yawn at Shiraz based Rosés…which just goes to show I can be a bit of a tosser. This is made saignée style, although I should probably say salasso style because that’s where the name comes from. Italian for “bleeding … Continue reading

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2011 Mike Press Shiraz

For all the bad press that the 2011 vintage has received, the areas hit by rain have still turned out some wines worthy of applause. They’ve also produced variations on themes and plays on difference which fascinate many wine enthusiasts, … Continue reading

Posted in Adelaide Hills, Shiraz | Tagged | Comments Off

2010 Barwang Hilltops Shiraz

Not one for the cellar, unlike the Barwang Cabernet Sauvignon, but a wine that usually offers a great deal of early drinking pleasure. It does so with this release until it stumbles, agonisingly, at the last hurdle. Juicy upfront blackberry … Continue reading

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