It is always great to see where a wine comes from and where it is headed, and the privilege of tasting the back vintage 2015 is not lost on me.
While the vineyard has evolved in that time, no doubt, so too have some slight tweaks in the winemaking.
A blend of Cabernet, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Shiraz (53.5/16/16/14.5), it opens with a clenched fist tension. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon material, gee, it found its groove over a few days of tasting. Longevity is certainly in its veins, something that is clearly apparent in the 2015. From a cooler year, I do love Brian Croser's detailed vintage heat summation - the 2021 vintage delivered 1468C days which is down on the 1480C average. This is a silky, fleet-footed and delicately poised blend that saw French oak barriques for 18 months, 50% of which were new.
The addition of Shiraz adds to the structure and backbone - that was quite obvious in the comparison. Black fruits, dark cherries, dark chocolate, licorice and some mint tucks in behind a facade. Drying, black tea adds interest along with a flurry of dried herbs. The palate is drenched with flavour yet it is not heavy-handed nor weighty. The well-handled acidity will keep this true for many years yet.
A composed and fascinating wine, this Whalebone Vineyard is without doubt the best of Wrattonbully.
Drink to fifteen years+
95/100
Region: Wrattonbully