Henschke's Lenswood vineyard in the Adelaide Hills

Thursday, 11 October 2012

Wirra Wirra Church Block (2010)

McLaren Vale, South Australia
14.5%, screwcap, biodynamic, around $18
www.wirrawirra.com

2010 was a good year for this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot. Displaying impressive fruit intensity for a wine in this price bracket, the palate was rich and seamless. Good value. - 94.

P.s. Church Block is one of the few wines that are consistently available in 375ml bottles - the perfect size for one person. Why are so few wines released in 375 ml bottles?

Thursday, 4 October 2012

Gibson Reserve Shiraz (2010)

Barossa Valley, South Australia
15%, screwcap, $45
www.gibsonwines.com.au

This classic Shiraz from the Barossa is flush with vibrant plums and black cherries set against lovely oak. The palate is incredibly long and smooth, but it is the quality of the fruit and oak that sets this wine apart. Do yourself a favour by grabbing some of this wine and laying it down for six years. A delightful wine - 96.