Tyrrell’s Vat 9 Shiraz 2023

Of all the wines in the Tyrrell’s Winemaker’s Selection, the Vat 9 shiraz is the most distinctive and stylistically consistent. Every Vat 9 has classic Hunter River Burgundy hallmarks of florality, high tones, medium weight, complex compote of mixed tangy fruits, a fine line of acid and the Tyrrell’s signature of an angular shape. The 2023 vintage is a great one, and so it shows here. An utterly beguiling aromatic mix of lavender, roses, a compote of red/blue/black/hedge fruits, mint, marjoram and compost. Ferrous, tangy and with enormous intensity, focus and concentration. Gourmand in style, it’s just so refreshing and for all its presence; elegance reigns supreme, the palate infused with savoury sinew power and tension. Minerals and gamey notes, all the elements harmonised and tensioned into an absolute modern classic. From Burgundy, to Barolo and Barbaresco, it’s as if there’s elements of them all and yet this is an absolute Hunter Valley legend in the making. Norris at Waters Wine Company

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

Vat 9 Shiraz is sourced from the best parcels on the Tyrrell Estate, ‘Ashmans’. This Vat 9 blend comprises of Shiraz from our Short Flat, NVC, and 8 Acres Vineyards. These vines have a minimum age of 50 years, with the oldest planted in 1892, and are grown in red clay soils over limestone.In the lead up to the 2023 vintage, there was an abundance of rain in spring which gave great soil moisture heading into the dry months of December and January. The harvest period was relatively stress-free without any adverse conditions such as rain or heat. This vintage has produced well balanced, complex wines with fruit purity and is considered to be an exceptional Hunter Valley vintage.Handpicked and hand sorted in the vineyard in the third week of February, the blocks were all fermented separately in open top vats. The individual wines were then matured in mostly newer French oak casks (2700L) until the Vat 9 blend was assembled in November 2023. The blend was then matured for a further five months before bottling.

One of the most intense colours of the 2023 release; glossy, bright, and dense. Captivating and complex aromatics of dark, sweet fruits; mulberry highlights and spice from the oak. The palate is clean, rich, and velvety; with length and texture that is signature Vat 9. Impeccable balance and approachability yet built for a long life in the cellar. Tyrrell’s Notes

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