The Wine Animal Verdict: This Shiraz is a creature of intense concentration and tightly wound power, reflecting the esteemed old vines and unique terroir of Wendouree in the Clare Valley. It's not an immediately open roar, but a deep, resonant growl hinting at immense potential waiting to be unleashed. Expect a wine of formidable structure, brooding dark fruit, and a hallmark ferrous tannin grip, demanding patience and promising significant rewards.
What's in the Cage: The 2022 vintage in the Clare Valley experienced a cooler growing season compared to the average, which can lead to wines with excellent structure and aging potential. Wendouree, a mythical estate with vineyards dating back to 1893, is known for its low-yielding, dry-grown old vines and minimal intervention winemaking. The "24B" designation likely refers to a specific block or selection within their Shiraz plantings. Expect open fermentation, minimal new oak influence (around 1/3), and a wine built for the long haul.
Tasting Notes (based on early reviews):
On the prowl, the nose is initially reserved but unfolds with air:
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Brooding Dark Fruit: Expect concentrated aromas of black fruit, such as blackberry and dark plum.
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Subtle Spice and Earth: Hints of cracked black pepper, dried herbs, and a touch of earthy or ferrous minerality may emerge.
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Restrained Oak: Some char and toasty oak notes may be present initially, settling back into the wine with aeration.
The palate is where this creature shows its intense and structured nature:
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Full-Bodied and Dense: Expect a very concentrated and powerful wine with significant weight.
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Masses of Chewy Tannin: A hallmark of Wendouree Shiraz, the tannins will be firm, ferrous, and grippy, providing a substantial structure.
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Focused Dark Fruit: Flavors of dark berries like blackberry will be prominent.
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Iodine and Savory Notes: Some reviewers note iodine and inky dark fruit characteristics.
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Huge and Lingering Finish: The finish is expected to be long and dominated by black tea-like tannins and persistent dark fruit.
Who's it For: This Shiraz is for the serious collector and the patient wine lover who appreciates intensely structured and age-worthy Australian reds. It demands cellaring and will reward those who allow it time to integrate and reveal its full complexity.
Pairing Power: This powerful and structured Shiraz will pair best with:
- Rich and hearty red meat dishes.
- Slow-cooked game.
- Dishes with intense savory flavors.
The Bottom Line: The Wendouree 2022 Shiraz 24B is a classic example of Clare Valley Shiraz built for longevity. Its intense concentration, formidable tannin structure, and brooding dark fruit profile suggest a wine with significant aging potential. While approachable in its youth for those who appreciate power, it will undoubtedly evolve into a more complex and nuanced creature with years in the cellar.
