Bright crimson hue; a fragrant, welcoming bouquet that, like the medium-bodied palate, has a spicy mix of red and black fruits in a cherry plum spectrum; the tannins and oak are judged to perfection. Screwcap. 13.5% alc. Rating 94 Drink 2023 $22 Date Tasted Feb 10 James Halliday
This is Rory's entry level Shiraz and he has labelled this one 'Wilderness' as it was the first wine he made being self-employed and more towards natural processes. Good move on both parts. This is a super wine for the price and much in the vain of the 2006. Think thick and juicy, with lovely lifted fragrant dark red fruits. Whilst it might be dense, it is still light on it's feet and lovely purity and freshness. Drink now or cellar for eight years. 93 points Anthony D'Anna
Our Grampians Shiraz Blend this year is titled 'Wilderness' to represent our move towards more natural winemaking processes and equipment - the use of indigenous yeasts for all ferments and the use of wooden fermenters which I believe give softer and more integrated tannin structures and have better insulative properties to maintain fermentation temperatures. Wilderness also represents my move into the unknown of self-employment, to fend for myself finally as a full-time Story person. This blend is of 4 vineyards, and is a dark, yet mid-weight shiraz with exciting aromatics and lovely balance. A seductive little number.
