2024 Reserve Shiraz Viognier

Co-fermented with 2.5% viognier and matured for 17 months in 14% new French barriques. A deep purple. Aromas of dark cherry, cocoa nibs and violets coalesce in this dense yet perfumed wine. Plush, velvet-textured and seductive, this is a delight to drink now but will also reward another eight to 10 years in the cellar.

Shiraz brings the dark purple fruited intrigue, Viognier the lifted prettiness and the rest is this up tempo, vibrant force of nature. From the first sniff, the first sip, it’s on a roll. Brilliant violet purple-crimson hues. Makes an early impressive statement with a fragrance alive in lifted aromatics of rose petal, dark plums, chocolate, spice. The lightest pinch of Viognier – 3% – wields so much in the colour and aromatic departments. On the palate, warmer textural elements come into play, fresh and smooth, and long running in dark fruits, plum, anise, liquorice, chocolate and a lifted pepperiness – just a splash. The oak – 14 months in French oak – and ripe tannins are nicely incorporated, merging into the mouth-filling ripe flavours. A serious statement about a blend well-suited to the Valley’s cooler climate.

This is a wine and style synonymous with Yering Station. It still carries the Shiraz Viognier designation, despite the blend containing just 2.5% Viognier. That small contribution is significant, adding aromatic lift and contributing to the wine’s structure. Aromas reveal liqueur cherry, Black Forest cake, rich dark fruitcake and subtle apricot notes. The palate is beautifully structured with firm yet fine tannins, while remaining smooth, rich and velvety. Just 14% new oak has been used, allowing the fruit to remain the star. Delicious now, but further cellaring will certainly reward patience.