Ulithorne Avitus Shiraz 2018 [JH 94]

Cellar Door Price 80aud.

Blewitt Springs sourcing, 12 days on skins, 8 months in French oak. Some of the more delicate varieties and blends suffer from the indomitable oak handling here. But this – dense, burly, rich and brimming with darker fruit tones, licorice strap, smoked meats, clove and alternate spices flowing from attack to finish – relishes it. A unashamedly big wine, of poise, power and precision. Drink to: 2028; Price: $80.00; Rating: 94 Points; Ned Goodwin MW; James Halliday Wine Companion.
 

Another 2018 McLaren Vale Shiraz from the Ulithorne team – well, why wouldn’t you if you can! Brilliant vintage, great vineyards, top winemaking and a grape and region that form a partnership made in heaven. Sourced from a single vineyard, ‘sand over clay’, in the Blewitt Springs sub-region of McLaren Vale. This is earthy with intriguing notes of dry herbs, coffee grinds, forest floor and dark chocolate. More chocolate notes emerge on the palate. This is attractive, but it really could do with a bit more time to unveil all it can offer. Alcohol: 14.5%; Drink: 2025 - 2032; Price: $85.00; Rating: 94 Points; Ken Gargett