Yangarra’s 2021 Single Block Release – If you’re in a Pinot-rut, this is your escape route
By Farr the best new releases from GT WINE Winemaker of the Year to come out of Geelong
July 8, 2021
Yangarra Estate is a long-time store favourite and because we’re surrounded by Pinot Noir in Red Hill, it’s nice to have something a bit warmer in the winter months – the riper, richer varieties that still pack plenty of bright acidity and fineness. Yangarra leads a small group of powerhouse wineries that are turning heads – and perceptions – of the McLaren Vale’s sandy soils, in the sub-region of Blewitt Springs.
Made by Halliday Winemaker of the Year, Peter Fraser, these wines come from old bush vine, single vineyards. The warm conditions of 2018/19 meant even lower yields to the already scrooge like quantities that Peter’s old bush vines produce. So in short, act quickly to avoid disappointment and perhaps, even embarrassment.
2019 Ovitelli Grenache – $58
Ovitelli is the most perfumed and elegant Grenache from the sands at Yangarra. The vibrant fruit of those dry grown 1946 bush vines is rewarded with a long, luxurious ferment and a whole autumn on skins in big ceramic eggs.
95 POINTS — “The aromas are elegant, lifted and fragrant, with red cherry, spice, rose water and a splash of talc. Flavours are refined and incredibly textural…” – The Real Review, Aaron Brasher, April 2021
2019 King’s Wood Shiraz – $58
Royal Oaks and King’s Wood were forests planted by monarchs to build cathedrals and navies. Long term planning. The beautiful old French oak in these giant foudre vessels is perfect for schooling and gently, gradually polishing and protecting the brightest, spiciest Shiraz we grow on Yangarra.
95 POINTS — “Remarkable poise for such a young wine, dark fruits, blood and ironstone all meld seamlessly.” – The Real Review, Stuart Knox, April 2021
2018 Ironheart Shiraz – $118
Ironheart is the flagship Shiraz from our single vineyard estate at the northern edge of McLaren Vale. The vineyard’s cooler climate and sandy ironstone soils produce Shiraz with immense concentration and finesse.
96 POINTS — “Showcasing flavour concentration, depth, opulence and long persistence to finish.” – The Real Review, Amanda Yallop, April 2021
2018 High Sands Grenache – $212
High Sands is our Holy Grail. It captures the essence of our prized old vines. The High Sands block has a restrained authoritative power that is an antithesis to its purity, fragrance and beauty.
96 POINTS — “Fruit sits with depth, but the tannin profile is something special in its intensity and grip.” – The Real Review, Stuart Knox, April 202
