DAN'S THIS WEEK'S WINE REVIEW
Dan Traucki MWCC
WINE ASSIST P/L Freelance Wine Journalist. Also facilitating the export of Australian Wines to the world.
Having tasted and enjoyed the 1997 Katnook Estate Shiraz that won the Jimmy Watson Trophy in 1998 (in fact I still have one bottle left in my cellar), I have known for over two decades how good the KATNOOK ESTATE wines can be.
Recently after a long hiatus, I was re-acquainted with some of their wines and my recollections were confirmed – they make bloody good wine! www.katnookestate.com.au
The first wine that impressed me was the KATNOOK 2017 FOUNDER’S BLOCK SAUVIGNON BLANC. Unlike many Aussie and New Zealand Sav Blanc’s whose pyrazines (passionfruit and capsicum aromas) are OTT (over the top), in this wine they were elegant and restrained, with the addition of some snow peas to further complex the bouquet. The palate has oodles of zippy, crisp flavours, with a great acid balance and a lovely, lingering finish. This wine is OH SO DRINKABLE!
However, the piece de resistance was the KATNOOK 2016 FOUNDER’S BLOCK COONAWARRA SHIRAZ. OMG what a smashing wine! Starting with the beautiful hues of purple and red in the colour – through the bright peppery and spice aromas which enhance the lively plummy bouquet – to the divine palate, where the rich but elegant flavours are sooo smooth and appealing. The balance and finish make the wine perfect for current drinking, but with enough structure and backbone that it will evolve into being even more awesome over the next few years.
All I can say is – FABULOUS & SUPERB!