Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley Shiraz 2019

2019 was a seriously special Shiraz vintage in the Hunter (yes, I know that this is the region which may have a reputation for crying wolf, but 2017, 2018 and 2019 were all stellar years). This might be an entry level offering from Tyrrell’s but it drinks far above that. Cracking value. They sourced the grapes from some of their top blocks with an average age of forty years. The fruit was destemmed but not crushed, which ensures a high percentage of whole berries reach the fermenter. Maturation was in large old French casks (2,700 litres).

A magenta/crimson colour, the nose is complex, even at this early stage. Notes of tobacco leaf, warm earth, red fruits, a hint of animal skins and roast meats. Lots to love here. Even a touch of mushrooms emerge. Seamless, with a flick of red apple. On the finish, there is a hint of almond/sour cherries, which lingers beautifully. Drink it now or cellar it for ten to fifteen years. Great value from a great vintage. Put a couple of cases deep in the cellar.