Tyrrell's Vat 9 Shiraz 2018

Cellar for 15 years or more. Decant for up to an hour before serving.

This is a fruit-laden Shiraz, bursting with aromas of ripe raspberry, strawberry, plum and baking spice. Some time spent breathing will reveal undertones of earthy spiced meat. Vat 9 is always harvested from the greatest plots of Shiraz on the Tyrell estate: the vines are planted on fertile red clay soils, with a minimum age of 50 years.

Given the Tyrell family's long history with the region of Hunter Valley and South East Australia as a whole, the quality of their wine is no surprise. They have been part of the landscape since the 19th century when wine pioneer Edward Tyrell planted some of the first vineyards in the country. Nowadays, the winery is in the safe hands of a fifth generation of Tyrells, Chris, Jane and John.

On the palate, the Vat 9 Shiraz exhibits a medium to full body, with velvety tannins and a pure vein of acidity. Notes of ripe hedgerow berries intermingle with hints of orange peel, baked red clay, and a melange of spice. It is superbly balanced, and although can be considered a “serious red wine”, it also contains a velvet-smooth texture and is incredibly easy to drink. The finish is deeply savoury, with notes of charred meat and earth. Consider pairing this Shiraz with hearty red meat dishes, pungent cheese, or spicy stuffed olives.