Seems everything is coming together for Thommo. A new family arrival of baby Jackson with his partner Kim, a new assistant wine maker in the most able form of Scott Comyns (formerly of Pepper Tree)…a Synergy it seems.

Thomas Wines Synergy Shiraz, Hunter Valley, 2013

A new label from the very good 2013 red vintage. A blend of barrels from the different single vineyards that Thommo has access to: Sweetwater, Motel and maybe a little bit of Pokolbin Estate (Kiss), which Thommos says all work in Synergy with each other. Whilst the “Elenay” (made up predominantly of Kiss with a few Sweetwater barrels thrown in) was designed to sit high in the ranks, the Synergy sits a few rungs down as an early drinking, (only) medium term cellaring option. But this is no mistake, Thommo is fastidious in his wine making and this is put together with that exact purpose in mind.

For me, the Motel block vineyard stands out here, the tight small berries that this straggly, yet powerful vineyard produce give a distinct savoury, muscular nose. Followed closely by the sweetish American oak giving a lovely chocolate ganache, 5 spice and dusty blue plums. I’m unsure of the exact make up from each vineyard on show here: the fleshiness of the Sweetwater provides lovely body and Motel the structure. There’s an understated elegance, which may be a touch of the Pokolbin Estate bringing a palate maturity. The flavour is supple and smooth without being simple, the tannins present and functional without being invasive. Great Synergy, even greater value.

RRP: $24

Alc: 13.5%

Wine sample courtesy of Thomas Wines