DAN'S WINE BLOG- THIS WEEK'S WINE REVIEW

THIS WEEK’S WINE REVIEW:?

?Friday, July 21, 2023:?This week in a wine scene that is focused, if not fixated, on single varietal wines. I am talking about a blend. Not only is it a blend, but it is also a uniquely Australian blend in that it combines a French variety with an Italian variety – something that would be nigh on impossible to do in Europe where varieties from different countries are never, ever, mixed together. Yep, the “Old World” misses out on a lot due to its ancient, archaic rules which govern almost every aspect of wine making. In fact, a growing number of young European winemakers are making wine outside the official, all regulating, Appellation system, which they find too restrictive (surprise, surprise). However, this new found freedom has yet to extend to making wines using varieties native to other countries.

?Being unencumbered by such ancient rules in Australia, winemakers are free to blend “whatever they bloody-well want!”

?Today’s superb wine is a case in point. It is a magnificent blend of the French Petit Syrah (Durif) and the Italian Aglianico. Mon Dieu ce n’est pas possible!!!

?This outstanding wine is the #dArenbergwines “The Conscious Biosphere” #mclarenvale #PetitSyrah (#Durif) #Aglianico 2018. It is a certified #organic wine that was partly foot-trod and basket pressed. The colour is super deep and dense, almost black – massive! The bouquet is slightly unusual in that it is more herbal than primary fruit and has some very appealing aromas of dried herbs, earthiness and a smidge of spices.

?On the palate this wine is still quite tight despite its age, with very smooth, dense, dark fruit flavours trying to nudge past the tannins. They will succeed over the next 3-5 years and it will become a drop-dead gorgeous wine. In the meantime savour it with rich food, be it meaty or vegetarian. The finish is very classy, tight, long, lingering, yet not aggressive. This wine is truly a brilliant blend of two “Old World” varieties which have the capacity to “play well together”.

?Ah, the joys of not having a gazillion rules controlling our wine industry!!

?By the way it is brilliant to see a 5-year-old current release in this day and age, when even Grange is released at 4-years-old.

?Check out this and a raft of other excellent wines with unpronounceable names at the link below – you will not be disappointed as you will find a wine that you really adore amongst their plethora of wines.

Well until next week, stay safe, always #chooseaustralianwines and when possible enjoy #emergingvarieties??Cheers, Dan T.

?Winery Link:?www.darenberg.com.au

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