It’s hard to think of many producers in Australia who have allowed their wines to be shaped so completely by the vineyard itself. No chasing trends. No bending to fashion. Just fruit, place, and time.
Fads come and go – and let’s be honest, Hunter Valley wines have never been the trendiest. But that’s precisely the point. They’re historic. Stylistically unique. Remarkably affordable (thankfully). And among the most age-worthy dry wines in Australia.
Wines that sit outside of fashion are often the most honest. They haven’t been pushed in one direction or another to satisfy the moment. They’ve simply been allowed to become what they are.
And that’s what makes Tyrrell’s so compelling.
Vintage after vintage, the wines speak clearly of the vineyard and the season – not of whatever happens to be in favour at the time. There’s a quiet confidence to them. No excess. No noise. Just detail, restraint, and an ability to evolve in the cellar that few Australian wines can match.
If you’ve never spent time with these wines, it’s worth correcting. And if you have, you’ll already know – these are bottles that reward patience, attention, and a slightly open mind.
A compelling chardonnay from one of the world’s great old vineyards. The palate is pure, ethereal and expansive, with freshness, energy and concentration. There is a tightly coiled core of lemony fruit giving fabulous tension. Youthful and unevolved right now, it is poised for greatness. Sensational fruit, expertly made. 97+ points – Toni Paterson, Halliday Wine Companion
Tyrrell’s VAT 47 Chardonnay 2023
An established star in the Australian wine landscape, and rightly so, for its purity, complexity and power. Made from hand-picked grapes sourced entirely from the Short Flat vineyard, planted by Murray Tyrrell. The lemony fruit is intense and the palate is beautifully expansive, textural and deeply satisfying, with barely perceptible savoury winemaking details that embellish and enrich the wine without a shred of dominance. The flavours build to an impressive crescendo, finishing with remarkable purity, energy and deliciousness. An outstanding chardonnay – one of Australia’s best. Pure class. 98 Points, Halliday Wine Companion
An outstanding Vat 9, reflecting the strength of the vintage, the component vineyards and the winemaking prowess. Parcels from Short Flat, NVC and 8 Acres vineyards were used, with a minimum vine age of 50 years. It is extraordinarily supple, mouth-filling and moreish, yet still decidedly medium weight. It has incredible flavour concentration, density and gentle succulence. Fine tannins provide appropriate support to the cherry and plum fruit, balanced acidity gives brightness and quality oak introduces a distinct nuttiness. A wine of completeness and harmony, and one to buy and serve with confidence. 97 Points, Halliday Wine Companion
Tyrrell’s Vat 8 Shiraz Cabernet 2023
A classic Australian blend with a multi-regional twist: 65/35% Hunter Valley shiraz/McLaren Vale cabernet sauvignon. The wine is powerful and assertive, with a glorious, bright, deep colour. Bursting with ripe mulberries, chocolate, fragrant anise, and spice, displaying a good mix of richness and freshness. Supporting the fleshy palate is a defined frame of plentiful, papery tannins, setting the wine up for a long future. 97 Points, Halliday Wine Companion
