2006 Ballandean estate wines shiraz viognier

2006 Ballandean estate wines

$25

Granite belt (qld)

Shiraz from this region is definitely a contrast to other regions, south Australia is warmer than the granite belt (if you can believe it) and this means that the grapes develop accordingly. The skins are thinner and the grapes ripen slower.  Shiraz is more mellow and focussed, no big peppery fruit bombs but instead subtle and smooth.

Red and clear, unlike Barossa purple hue.

The nose is great, cranberry jelly lollies (someone should make those) and creamed honey.  Slight barnyard element that disappears on airing. Some dried herbs come through too.

Soft raspberries and a little dried herbs  produce a balanced and approachable palate.

Good with steak, whereas this blend from other regions would often be matched to woodfire pizza. There is not as much savory character but definitely enough tannins to go with a medium rare porterhouse. 

77 points