This wine has come from some of the oldest shiraz vines on The Granite Belt, these vines located at Sundown Road Ballandean were part of the old Winewood Vineyard, which incidentally had, and still has, some of the best Marsanne vines in the region.
Beautifully coloured and radiant in the glass the wine glitters and glows with a lively inviting red, blackish and red cherry sunset tinted spectrum.
A smoothly flowing redolent river tenderly ripples your senses with aromas of dark plums, ripe figs, some toasted oak, and a light earthiness – the bouquet promises an elegant experience.
When you first taste this wine you recognise something immediately – the wine is fruit expressive and the tannins are a little softer than in shiraz wines made by many others. This is a recognition of John Handy’s wine making – his signature style if you like. I suspect the pressing is a little gentler and in that respect there is more free run juice. Pressing is an art form which varies greatly across wine makers and also varies across different vintages.
Soft fruit with a masterful resolution between tender and spirited embraces and caresses your taste buds with luscious mouthfeel. You encounter ripe plums, a little cola, liquorice coated olives a light fondle of vanilla, granite dusted with minerally sand, a well resolved and balanced acid and some late black pepper. All of this intricate intertwining complexity is presented and seamlessly propelled by ripe and fine tannins.
Another feature of this wine is its soft textural but still energetic mouthfeel. It lingers long and lovingly not a step out of place here, prepare to be seduced.
You can drink this wine with confidence now or anytime between now and 8 years. Drink it preferably in winter with something warm, hearty and roasted/stewed while you offer your grateful appreciation to Bacchus.
Tasted: Saturday 1sh May, 2021 without food and then with over several hours.
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $45
Suggested Drinking Window: now to 2028
Winemaker: John Handy
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