Passel Estate Shiraz 2021
G 91
A winery which sneaks under the radar, at least for those of us from the eastern States; this is a fine Shiraz. Fermentation was on skins over two weeks, before pressing to barrel. Maturation was in a mix of French oak barriques and puncheons for ten months. 30% of the oak was new. Deep maroon in colour, with a garnet rim, the nose offers aromas weaving through cold tea, cloves, leather, graphite, blackberries, spices, cherries, chocolate and a hint of axle grease, in the most positive way. A silky texture with fine satiny tannins, this is a thoroughly enjoyable wine. It needs a touch more length for elevation to higher status, and perhaps that will come with time. Meanwhile, it should provide pleasure over the next six to eight years. Drink now–2029 Stones + Thunder Calm Before The Storm Chardonnay 2023 G 91 Modern, powerful and flinty. A wine that stops you in your tracks. Gunpowder and yellow grapefruit. The approach feels very of-the- moment: tense, powerful, and stripped back from the ripe abundance of decades past. The sulphides are farm-to-table, top to bottom, nose to tail, wrapping around you right through to the finish. Drink now–2032 Thompson Estate Four Chambers Sauvignon Blanc 2025 G 91 Margaret River Savvy for drinking over the next couple of years, this is pale lemon in colour. The nose is very much a highlight of this wine, offering notes of gooseberries, passionfruit, a hint of blackcurrant leaves and tropical touches. The wine is of medium weight, has decent length and fine acidity, exhibiting both freshness and drive. For enjoying over the next two to three years. Drink now–2028 Thompson Estate The Specialist Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 G 91 A wine not for the daft. You need a bit of smarts to understand the beauty and savoury tones of this Cabernet. Bay leaf, red dirt, and blood plums. The palate is gentle in fruit, yet firm and holding in structure. Tannins in abundance. The oak isn’t shy either. Drink now–2032 UMAMU Estate Chardonnay 2019 G 91 It’s not that often I get to taste old Chardonnay – what a joy. Pineapple cake, almond meal, and wax. The palate is still holding on, driving through with barbecued pineapple spice, texture and wise old stories. Lovely, nostalgic energy. Drink now–2030
Margaret River 2026
55
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