WA:93 Drink: 2023-2033
Effusive aromas of dark plums, cola, blueberries and raspberries can all be found on the nose of the 2019 Woodcutter's Shiraz. Predominantly raised in older hogsheads, there are hints of vanilla as well. Medium to full-bodied, reasonably lush and soft, with a lingering, softly dusty and gently savory finish, this is another outstanding vintage for this wine.The 2022 Woodcutter's Semillon is from two vineyards; the Schulz vineyard (Ebenezer) and Philippou vineyard (Rowland Flat), and the two patches in this latter vineyard are picked independently. (The "old" part was planted 1893, and the "young" in 1900. These are "full Madeira clones," says Ian Hongell, meaning they're purple/red berries—the variety has the ability to switch from green to red at veraison.) Both are sand vineyards, picked and fermented separately. 2022 was a beautiful cool season in the Barossa, and this wine here is aromatically fresh and tight. In the mouth, the wine is salty and textural—from part (40%) of the blend being matured in seasoned barriques; "texture without a phenolic fingerprint." This has salted yellow grapefruit, lemon peel, hints of saffron, layers of green apple and a hint of spring florals. It is really good, engaging, delicious.