5 red stars for Shelmerdine Vineyards & PHI in James Halliday's 2010 Australian Wine Companion
Generally awarded to those ‘wineries with a particularly distinguished track record over the past three years’, this reaffirms Shelmerdine’s postion as one of the most highly regarded producers in the Heathcote region. (The only other winery in the region to receive 5 red stars is Jasper Hill.)
2007 Heathcote Shiraz – due for release in early 2010
Lifted blueberry bouquet with elements of mint, oak and slightly dusty complexity; the palate is very firm, with an abundance of tannin and acid; a complex wine that needs time to fully integrate, and especially for the tannin to soften. Screwcap. 13.5% alc. Rating 94 Drink 2020
2007 Heathcote Cabernet Sauvignon – due for release early 2010
Pure blueberry bouquet with sage thrown in for good measure; the palate is forceful and rich, with a strong tannin and bright acid presence on the long and firm finish. Screwcap. 13% alc. Rating 93 Drink 2015
2006 Merindoc Vineyard Shiraz – current release
A strong minty bouquet, but the palate offers a different experience: red fruits intermingle with spice and earth; while medium-bodied, has a firm and fine-grained tannin finish, acidity leaving the wine fresh and vibrant. Screwcap. 13.5% alc. Rating 94 Drink 2016
Merindoc Vineyard Heathcote Shiraz 2007 – due for release in September 2009
Deep and concentrated, there is rich blackberry and fruitcake on the bouquet; the palate is dense and long, with multiple layers of licorice and blackberry fruit balanced by firm tannins. Screwcap.13.5% alc.
Rating 95 Drink 2014+
The quality of our Lusatia Park Vineyard was again recognised, with the highest rating given to PHI (the winegrowing and winemaking partnership between the Shelmerdine and DeBortoli families). The 2007 PHI Chardonnay was awarded 96 points, the second highest rating for any Chardonnay in the book.
James commented that ‘the outcome has been wines of the highest quality, and a joint venture that will last for many years’.
PHI 2007 Chardonnay – current release
A complex and restrained wine, exhibiting, pear, mineral and a hint of citrus character on the bouquet; the palate is tightly wound with refined texture, and a delicate use of oak that merely acts as seasoning; long, fine and worthy of serious consideration for ageing. Screwcap. 12% alc. Rating 96 Drink 2018
PHI 2008 Sauvignon – due for release in October 2009
Has the incisive palate which is the mark of this wine, relying on texture, structure and length rather than primary fruit; echoes of top quality Sancerre. Screwcap. 12% alc. Rating 94 Drink 2012
PHI 2007 Pinot Noir – current release
Vibrant colour; fresh red fruits, elements of spice and even a suggestion of fresh cut herbs; the palate is incredibly fine, supple, focused and long, with savoury, almost gamey, complexity showing through on the fan-like finish. Screwcap. 12.5% alc. Rating 94 Drink 2014
For more information or to order these wines, please contact our Cellar Door:
info@shelmerdine.com.au
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