Swinney Farvie Mourvèdre 2021
- 95
- $150
- Drink by: 2023-2031
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Recently, we saw the Mourvèdre Rosé from Swinney, for me, the best Rosé I have seen from this country. Now we have the more traditional use of the grape, as a fabulous table wine. Mourvèdre is often a contributor to Rhône-style blends, rather than a single varietal, or perhaps a curio. The fact that only 63 dozen of this wine were made probably condemns it to curio status, but it deserves better. A superb example. When it comes down to the Syrah and this wine, it is merely a matter of personal preference. Both are stunning, though for me, that sleek elegance and finesse found in the Syrah gives it the nod. The grapes for this wine was dry grown in the Frankland River region. The fruit, 100% whole bunches, went into two upright French oak demi muids. Wild yeasts and then, after fermentation, 11 days on skins. Some foot stomping, before pressing to a single 600-litre four-year-old French oak demi muid, where it matured for almost a year. Dark maroon, we have notes of bay leaves, red berries, dried herbs, old cigar boxes, florals and more. Juicy acidity with the structure balanced, tight, with impressive length and transparent tannins. A firm finish with serious power evident, but also some finesse. Drink for 6 to 8 years, though in good cellars, it will surely go for much longer.
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.
