Naked Run 'Hill 5' Shiraz Cabernet 2018 (Clare Valley)
Solid AF and a brilliant auction buy at $10 pb. Clare Valley reds have a habit, at least IMHO, of showing a restrained seriousness and class, and that is certaintly evident here. Dry red berries, some firmness initially, but superb balance and calmness. Hitting its stride at 7yrs.
Domaine Razal 'Heritage Blend' Cabernet Shiraz Malbec Merlot 2024 (Macedon Ranges)
Wanted to like this more than I did. Always a tough gig growing Cab and Shiraz at 650m in this part of the world and I think the challenge shows here, albeit in an expected way. Subtle dry berries and looks like a slightly shy BDX blend with soft spice and minor tannin fur. Very fine boned and will have greatly appeal to those with classic sensibilities.
Ghost Rock Riesling 2024 (North West Tasmania)
Plenty to like here. Fruit forward with sweet citrus but the acid backbone is very too far away and keeps things (mostly) straight. Should have instant/wide appeal.
Antinori 'Peppoli' Chianti Classico Sangiovese 2023 (Tuscany)
Antinor's effort to make an 'international' style? Works for me......soft billowing fruits early before some game and chocolate kicks in. Typical CC backbone albeit the fruit always does the talking. Like.
John Duval 'Eligo' Shiraz 2021 (Barossa Valley)
A rare act of midweek excess (for me at least). Very well mannered and under control, particularly for the vintage. Fruits and just starting to open up but the spicy oak still features (very well handled BTW). Just stretches beyond midweight but will be assured a long life.
