Armstrong Shiraz 2017
- 93
- $60
- Drink by: 2023-2033
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Under cork, this is from Western Victoria and already has a few years under its belt, more than both the currently available Grange and Hill of Grace. Elegantly packaged, my immediate impression was that this was a wine which would benefit from a spell in a decanter. Deep red hue, there is good oak integration with plums, blackcurrants, warm earth, dry herbs and bay leaves. This is a fine example of a cooler climate Shiraz, one with a little development already evident. Focus and balance too with an appealing vibrancy on the palate. Fine, if slightly furry tannins and finishing with good length and has a further ten years in it, with ease.
Ken was born and bred in Brisbane, Queensland. He had a non-trendy, perfectly happy childhood, in a family convinced alcohol meant instant condemnation to Hades. But a break fishing on the Great Barrier Reef, and some good wine, started a serious obsession that eventually took over. It did not stop Ken being chastised later for drinking Pol champagne, disgusted he’d drink anything made by a Cambodian dictator. Now, Ken mostly writes on wine, champagne and spirits for various newspapers, magazines and books, but is perhaps best known for his work in The Courier Mail. He also has a little sideline writing on cigars, fishing, travel and food. When not writing, fly-fishing for trout in NZ or bonefish on the flats of Cuba, travelling or smoking cigars, he is no doubt following a variety of sporting teams – the occasionally glorious Queensland Reds rugby, the dysfunctional Washington Redskins, the dodgy Arsenal and especially revels in the world restored to its proper axis with the return of the Ashes to their rightful home.
