Flametree SRS Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
G 96
Like a well earned bruise, this is all the hues of blue, rouge and black tones, but unlike a sore point, this wine is soul-restoring. Ribena, kirsch and Davidson plums are met with tapenade, wild thyme and volcanic ash. The palate shows it can still greet you with the kiss of raspberry and cranberry whilst showing you too its savoury, granitic side. Some black pepper and poppy seed bitterness; the wine is medium-bodied, with tannins that are supple and feel more skins than oak. The palate leaves you with the cocoa nib and raw dustings of cocoa. This is perky and astute now and will reward with long-term cellaring. This is one of my go-to long-haul buys. No S.R.S. has ever been disappointing with five to eight or so years in the cellar. Once again, it’s some of the best Margaret River wine you can buy for the price. This will continue to get better as well. Ideal with crispy remnants left on the rib eye bone, the best bit in
my opinion. Drink now–2033 Flowstone Queen of the Earth Sauvignon Blanc 2023
G 96
Sweet custard apple, white pineapple and meadow flowers – this may well be WA’s best Savvy B. Few bells, no whistles. You can see both the strategic winemaking of someone who truly appreciates the grape and the inherent varietal character of the grape. Layers of complexity that speak to romantics, critics, and punters alike. Wet stone, pomelo, sage… it tastes like freedom and the smashing of misconceptions. Texture, flint, goodness. It’s complete. It makes me smile. Other SBs should be taking notes. Drink now–2035 Howard Park Allingham Chardonnay 2024 G 96 The fruit for the team’s flagship Chardonnay comes from their best blocks on the south-facing slopes of the Allingham vineyard in the Karridale sub-region of Margaret River, usually a little cooler than much of the district. Maturation is in French oak. Howard Park has always been a leading winery in Margaret River, but some of what we are seeing of late suggests that they are now competing favourably with the absolute best in the region. Deep lemon, this is refined and focused. There are notes of lemon curd, nectarine, lemongrass, spices, jasmine and white peaches. The wine has deceptive length, serious persistence and very good underlying intensity. Flavour in spades, but always elegant, the wine is finely balanced and beautifully crafted. It offers a seductive texture and the oak integration is exemplary. A ten-year proposition and an absolutely cracking Margaret River Chardonnay. Drink 2028–2036
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The Vintage Journal – Regional Focus
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