From one of the more famed Hunter Valley vineyards (the Semillon consistently takes out awards). Part of a greater stable that includes Pepper Tree. Winemaker is Alex Beckett.

Briar Ridge, Dairy Hill, Shiraz, Hunter Valley, 2021

Hunter dusty and meaty/leathery notes over red plum and blackberry hints. A juiciness on the nose (note the ABV) akin to citrus, some camphor and plenty of savoury oak. Welterweight Hunter in flight. With fine structure, coffeed oak, spiced plums, tight tannins all giving a nod to  “Hunter Burgundy.” There’s fine acid for freshness and plenty of flavour through a, relatively speaking, delicate tail. Definitely one for lovers of nuance and angle.

RRP: $65
Alc: 12.6%
Rating: 92/100

Wine sample courtesy of Briar Ridge and Dialogue PR