Ox Hardy 1891 Ancestor Vine Shiraz 2021
G 96
Selected from a few special rows in the Ancestor vines planted in 1891 by Andrew’s great-grandfather. Matured for two years in seasoned barriques before release. This wine unveils a trip meandering down an olive grove with a charcuterie board of black pepper-studded meats, Concord grapes, blackberries and rosemary leaf. So is its bewitchment of aromas. Freshly poured tar, nigella seed and clove. A hint of caper leaf and sage adds further intricacy. It’s a savoury palate and has ample room to develop further, say, another three to six years. A modern rendition of Australian Shiraz with the learned lessons of previous generations. Drink now–2030 Paxton Paxton Elizabeth Jean Shiraz Shiraz 2022 G 96 The flagship limited release EJ Shiraz made from shiraz vines planted in 1887. A breeze of rose garden, Gala apple skin and raspberry compote bubbling on the stove. A mid palate of brittle snapped tree bark, powdered cumin and portobello mushroom. Fruit leather and undergrowth come together in sinewy tannins, the chew a delight to encounter. The wine is ready made in the vineyard it seems; it comes sewn together and curves in all the right places. Hard to imagine it gets better with age but with age comes wisdom and these vines are much older than me. Breathtaking stuff. Drink now–2032
S.C. Pannell The Vale Shiraz Grenache 2019
G 96
51% Shiraz, 49% Grenache. A quintessential McLaren Vale blend and here it is done with expert precision. Providing the vivid red fruits of Grenache with the palate weight of Shiraz. Tannins collect and boomerang the flavours back to the front palate with the added spice of clove, carob and plum jam. It’s rounded but with persistent acidity and power. Once again, as most of the S.C. Pannell range, the wines are youthful beyond belief and true works of art. Outstanding value to boot. Drink now–2030 Thistledown Wines The Vagabond Grenache 2023 G 96 Sourced from the ancient sandy soils of Blewitt Springs. Mesmerising aromas of raspberry leaf, wild strawberry and harissa spice. Bergamot orange and Campari bitters. Baked quince and Gala apple. Superbly dry tannins that intensify the flavour along the way, it’s dialled up in every way with the exception of artefact. Fine sandy texture with ethereal length. Totally beguiling. Drink now–2030 Willunga 104 Trott Vineyard Grenache 2023 G 96 10% whole bunches, basket pressed and matured for 10 months in stainless steel. The addition of raspberries and hawthorn sits over a base of black cherries and mulberry. Autumn leaves and terra cotta clay with hints of cumin spice. The palate is lavish in its sweet red berries and sumac spice. Ethereal flow of acidity and stately sandy tannins. This will make you fall in love with Grenache, if you haven’t already. Everything is in its place here. Drink now–2030
South Australia 2024
261
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