With two percent Roussanne included during the ferment, this is a nod to the winemaking of the wines of the Rhone.

TarraWarra Estate, J Block, Shiraz, Yarra Valley, 2017

Deep garnet and almost opaque. Flinty, meaty reduction to start before a distinct aromatic lift (from the Roussanne co-ferment perhaps?), red berry jus, fresh earth and crunchy fallen autumnal leaves. Oak is a cedary sweet throw rug across the lap. On point and tightly packed/framed into a modern, medium bodied edition. Plenty of flesh counterpointed with earthy elements and a bitter chocolate and charry finish. Tannins are matte, firm.
This has a bit of a grumble: all the good bits are there but it feels like I’ve woken someone too early and they want to pull the blanket over their head for another hour’s kip.

RRP: $40
Alc: 14%
Rating: 18/20 (92/100)

Wine sample courtesy of TarraWarra Estate