The Barossa Mag Spring 2018 | Page 47

WINE REVIEWS // T H E B AROSSA MAG | 47 DUTSCHKE ST HUGO THE THIEF? HAYES FAMILY ST JAKOBI COONAWARRA BAROSSA VALLEY WINES BAROSSA SINGLE VINEYARD BAROSSA VALLEY GRENACHE SHIRAZ VALLEY REGIONAL SHIRAZ CABERNET SHIRAZ MATARO SERIES MATARO 2015 2013 2016 2017 2015 was a record early vintage in the Barossa (and the fastest to finish!) and Wayne Dutschke made the gamble to be the first to pick. He nailed it, and the evidence is the bright lift, fruit definition and acid drive that define one of his greatest St Jakobis yet. Black fruit depth lingers very long amidst firm, finely crafted tannin structure that promises great longevity. The bright rose petal lift and redcurrant tang of Coonawarra Cabernet is well supported by the supple blue fruits, spice and fleshy balance of Barossa Shiraz in the ripe 2013 vintage, culminating in a long finish of firm, fine tannins that promise a great future. A spicy and textural style with smoky barrel complexity and a long finish of fine supple tannins. A lovely contrast between bright fruit core and savoury complexity, this is a juicy and drinkable blend that ticks every box as a crowd-pleasing style. Brett Hayes describes 2017 as a season more about elegance than raw power, and his Ebenezer Mataro captures this mood precisely. Primary red cherry, blackberry and strawberry fruits are graced with soft, supple tannins and just a hint of earthy character to confirm that this is truly Mataro. A great value red in a friendly and fruity style to enjoy in its youth. dutschkewines.com sthugo.com labisewines.com.au hayesfamilywines.com 95 POINTS $42 93 POINTS $58 92 POINTS $25 91 POINTS $26