2016 Royal Melbourne Wine Awards - Silver Medal
Huon Hooke - 92 Points
James Halliday - 94 Points
Mike Bennie - 93 Points
Decanter Magazine, UK - 91 Points
Steve Leszczynski - 93 Points
Like the 2014 Syrah, the 2015 Syrah grapes are taken from the Warramunda vineyard in Coldstream, Yarra Valley. The grapes were picked on 13th March. Three-quarters of the pick was destemmed and moved to fermenters for an 18 day fermentation. Whereas the last quarter was treated separately as a 100% whole bunch fermentation. After pressing the wine was run to barrels, where 17% was new (Hungarian) oak. Maloloctic fermentation was conducted with rack and returns conducted as necessary. The wine was blended and bottled, unfined and unfiltered, in January 2016.
The appearance is a vivid ruby. The nose exhibits floral notes of violets, lavender and heady herb garden. Fruit notes of blueberry and ripe raspberry show. Layers of clove, nutmeg and mahogany are woven throughout.
The palate shows firm, polished tannin that are mouth coating. Red cherry, violet and dark choc tones show through. A subtle whole bunch tones of blueberry bubblegum and pepperoni pizza show through. The finish is long, complex and perky with spice notes carried through.
Match this wine with protein rich dishes such as warm Cassoulet or a T-bone beef steak.
The wine is built to go the distance, and will continue to drink well for 15 or more years.
Wine Reviews:
Melbourne Wine Awards 2016
Silver Medal
Decanter Magazine, UK
91 Points
Mike Bennie. Wine Business Magazine
93 points
"Alkimi is a relatively new producer for me but the wines are speaking my language. I like the dried herb and pepper overtones in this wine, and more so, the medium weight and savouriness to taste. It's lively, vibrant Shiraz (Syrah!) with cranberry accented fruit character. Get amongst it. 13.5%"
Huon Hooke The Real Review
92 points
"Deep but bright red/purple hue and a spicy, lifted, aromatic bouquet, which is seemingly cool-climate and this accords with the palate which is elegant and medium to full-bodied, the tannins ample but measured and supple. Some smoky oak notes. A lovely wine, already a pleasure to drink. Tasted 30/5/2017"
James Halliday Wine Companion
94 Points
Spice, pepper, lavender and clove aromas lead into a textured medium-bodied palate with black and blue fruits to the fore, fine tannins bringing up the rear. Sophisticated winemaking."
Steve Leszczynski -QWine Reviews
93 Points
The Good Earth? This should be more appropriately be renamed the Bloody Good Earth. Moreish deluxe, it exudes class and charisma with a street style swagger.
I find these wines from Stu Dudine crank the delish factor high. Blue fruits, fine spices, Italian sausage, raspberry and red plums. The Hungarian oak is a tad noticeable but the soft delivery of dense fruit takes the reins and drives you to pleasure town.
Medium bodied with an incredible hang time, reaching for another glass is non-negotiable. Smashing cool climate Syrah.
Drink now to fifteen years+.