Wendouree is one of the hardest wines to get. Unless you live in Australia and you are one of the lucky few who are on the mailing list of this legendary producer. The only reason I tasted their wines during the last decade is that a friend of mine from Sydney brings one or two every year when he is visiting us here in Budapest. But this was the first time for me in 2022 July to taste the shiraz, probably Wendouree’s most highly regarded red.

Sensational. Tastes like a Wendouree rather than a syrah, but I’m not complaining. There is some Barolo or Burgundy grand cru-like charm, a traditional European classic feel to it. Super savoury. Lively yet ripe fruits, bitter coconut shell oak. Bone dry with real, grippy tannins, there is a lovely stemmy, whole bunch feel to them – though I’m not sure they are using any in the making. Tension, focus and complexity, all are there. Acidity is great, too. A wow wine. Actually I would open it now as it’s in its prime of energy and power. Surely can be aged, too. 97 points.