McNicol Shiraz Mitchell 2009

McNicol Shiraz, Mitchell, Clare Valley, South Australia, 2009     

Grape: 100% dry grown Shiraz aged in 500 litre French oak for 24 months and then in bottle for 72 months before release. Largely whole bunch fermented with natural yeasts. High elevation vineyards at 400-500m above sea level.

Very dark red, almost black at the centre, garnet at the rim. Fragrant complex nose, with dark fruits (black cherries, blackberries and dark plums), dark chocolate and smoky/cedary oak; integrated and complete. Core of firm palate, dark fruit flavours supported by integrated oak and fine tannins. Medium to full-bodied, with a long dry finish that carries its 14.5% alcohol with ease. 

Now entering its optimum drinking period, this wine is elegant and classy. The primary fruit flavours of youth have given way to the more complex aromas and tastes of maturity. You can drink it now or allow it to develop further for up to five years at least. 

"A great rendition of the traditional Australian dry red that is more regional than varietal but carries with it great fruit power and structure. It is bright deep ruby and is aging at a snail’s pace with youthful and fleshy dark cherry, kirsch and blackberry jam fruits with oak in the background. There is also some baked stone Clare Valley character thrown in. This all leads to a dry and full-bodied palate with a core of dark berry fruits underpinned by some serious tannins that are chewy and balanced providing tremendous backbone and supporting a long finish. It is a big red no doubt from a big vintage but also carries with it superb balance and underlying complexity. There is also a Bordeaux like balance and feel here the bodes well for a long future ahead. Drink 2020 - 2035"

95/100 points Angus Hughson, Wine Pilot

Great with rare roast beef and Indian dishes.