Spinifex has deservedly established itself as one of the top producers in the Barossa Valley. This bottle, which was purchased on release, was opened with great anticipation.
Shiraz Viognier co-ferments and blends have somewhat of a mixed track record in Australia. Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier is a benchmark of cool climate Shiraz. Torbreck RunRig and its offspring, Descendant are proof positive that Viognier can work alongside Shiraz in warm climates such as the Barossa Valley.
This particular bottle of Spinifex Shiraz Viognier failed to fire. So dominant was the Viognier (even at a mere 5%) that it detracted from the wine. As is the case of mild cork taint or ‘scalping’ one could tell there was a good wine underneath, but the Viognier was simply so overt that it marred the drinking experience.
Something is clearly not quite right here. The wine has been stored impeccably throughout its life. Yes, it was sealed under cork, but there was not a trace of taint or oxidation. Has it been left too long? Or not long enough? We’ll put this one down to experience.
2004 SPINIFEX SHIRAZ VIOGNIER
Producer: Spinifex
Variety: Syrah/Shiraz
Region: Barossa Valley, South Australia
ABV: 14.5%
Closure: Natural cork
Retail Price: $60.00
Date tasted: 10 June 2017
Tasting Note:
Rich plum red. Still holding its fruit on the nose – though the Viognier component seems to really dominate – overt apricot blossom characters. Full bodied, soft and round on the palate. Although only 5% Viognier, the wine is overwhelmed by it to the point that it is disjointed. Not a good showing.
Score: 14/20
Shiraz Viognier co-ferments and blends have somewhat of a mixed track record in Australia. Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier is a benchmark of cool climate Shiraz. Torbreck RunRig and its offspring, Descendant are proof positive that Viognier can work alongside Shiraz in warm climates such as the Barossa Valley.
This particular bottle of Spinifex Shiraz Viognier failed to fire. So dominant was the Viognier (even at a mere 5%) that it detracted from the wine. As is the case of mild cork taint or ‘scalping’ one could tell there was a good wine underneath, but the Viognier was simply so overt that it marred the drinking experience.
Something is clearly not quite right here. The wine has been stored impeccably throughout its life. Yes, it was sealed under cork, but there was not a trace of taint or oxidation. Has it been left too long? Or not long enough? We’ll put this one down to experience.
2004 SPINIFEX SHIRAZ VIOGNIERProducer: Spinifex
Variety: Syrah/Shiraz
Region: Barossa Valley, South Australia
ABV: 14.5%
Closure: Natural cork
Retail Price: $60.00
Date tasted: 10 June 2017
Tasting Note:
Rich plum red. Still holding its fruit on the nose – though the Viognier component seems to really dominate – overt apricot blossom characters. Full bodied, soft and round on the palate. Although only 5% Viognier, the wine is overwhelmed by it to the point that it is disjointed. Not a good showing.
Score: 14/20
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