By David Ellis from vintnews.
It’s not often we get the chance to taste a $150 bottle of what is obviously up there with the very best of the best, so when that opportunity did come our way recently it proved not only one of our most memorable tasting experiences, it decided us on just what we’ll be putting with the family Christmas turkey this year.
We’re talking about a Wynn’s Michael Shiraz from the best-of-vintage fruit off their best vineyards in Coonawarra, and made only in exceptional years when the most extraordinary of fruit is available, in this case 2013. First labelled in 1955, company proprietor David Wynn released the wine as a one-off in that year after noticing the outstanding quality of two particular barrels, and naming it Michael after his son.
It has since gone on to become something of a legend of the Australian industry, and one of the most highly-regarded of Aussie Shiraz – which is saying something. Endless layers of fruit, spice and texture are centre to this 2013, together with powdery tannins, nutty oak and suggestions of ginger.
All of which make for it being the perfect partner with the Christmas turkey, and why all our family will be pitching-in for a couple of bottles with ours this year.
One to note: it’s hard to believe that it has been 45 years since Yellowglen first hit hotel and bottle-shop shelves across this country, and since then showing that Australia can be up there with the best when it comes to making stand-out bubblies for all-occasion celebrations.
One such that’s now available and worth looking at for special events or festivities is their 2009 Perle Vintage, made from the classic sparkling wine grape varieties of Pinot Noir (60%), Chardonnay (30%) and Pinot Meunier (10%) harvested across a selection of Yellowglen’s vineyards in Victoria and South Australia.
At $25, its prominent lemon zest and mineral flavours are coupled with grapefruit and nougat to make for a wonderfully elegant and memorable celebratory drop.
