Murray Street Vineyards Gomersal Shiraz

Gomersal is one of the warmest subregions of the Barossa. Soils are varied and some not ideally suited for growing Shiraz. The Murray Street Gomersal vineyard is in one of the better locations with sandy and lime soils, to my knowledge.

The 2008 MSV Gomersal Estate Shiraz shows a very strong vanilla bouquet. It dominates the palate as well, covering the underlying concentrated blackberry fruit and the ripe tannins. This wine has been aged in new and used American oak for 18 months. Unfortunately, the oak is so dominant that it makes the wine quite one-dimensional.

Score: 86/--

Felton Road Block 5 Pinot Noir

I drink most vintages and several types of  Felton Road Pinot Noir. The two most esteemed are Block 3 and Block 5, in particular Block 5. I often prefer Block 3 for its rare ethereal qualities, whereas Block 5 is the more powerful version, living a long life.

Drinking the 2006 Felton Road Block 5 Pinot Noir tonight is sheer pleasure. The flavour profile is as expected: black cherry, infused with complex savoury forest floor. The fruit is quite concentrated and intense and shows little sign of abating after 8-9 years. Oak is skillfully integrated.

What is stunning about this wine are the tannins. They are present early on the palate, caressing the mouth. They are firm and hold the structure of the wine well, while being silky at the same time.

All this leads to a harmonious long finish in the style of a top flight Burgundy, but sun-kissed.

I am really enjoying this wine. Will surpass another 5 years easily.

Score: 97/+++