Sleek. This LDR Shiraz Touriga is a great drink. Cast aside the preconceptions that all Hunter Valley wines from 2020 are written off. Once you get your head around the landscape you can be assured that this goes well.
As per the Steven Vineyard Shiraz, I was on the ground during vintage and I learnt a lot.
This LDR Shiraz Touriga release (80/20) is not as fragrant as previous vintages, but the medium-bodied appeal coupled with the silky feel is still well in the mix.
Many of the vineyards impacted by smoke taint from 2020 hug the range but the Lovedale Road vineyard (LDR) is well away - some 15+ kilometres as the crow flies. That distance ensured the breeze was able to clear the smoke as opposed to the vineyards around the range which didn't have the same luxury.
The purple flowers and glorious aromas aren't as prominent but it glides through with ease. And it's that delicate mouthfeel that has you returning for more each time. Plums and compote with blueberries and cloves plus fruit bun spices add layers to its complex profile. Black olives gather up the courage to step forward with time in the glass. Silty tannins come early but they firm up to finish powdery. Above all, this is a glittering beacon from a tough year for many in the Hunter Valley.
Drink to eight years+
94/100
Region: Hunter ValleySource: Sample
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