Holm Oak 2024 Shiraz

 

Cool-climate shirazes from Tasmania are increasingly find favour with wine drinkers looking for more subtle/elegant takes on the grape variety. With the 2024 vintage wines coming from a warm, dry year at Rowella in the Tamar Valley, that created perfect conditions for fine, peppery shiraz. I really liked the immediate drinkability of this one, which has moderate alcohol but plenty of flavour. Red fruit and spice notes are aided and abetted by quality French oak (just 20% new) that sits comfortably in the background. Fruit driven, medium bodied and a statement that there is more to Tasmanian reds than just pinot. Pair this with poultry dishes, or maybe roast beef and Yorkshire pudding. $50. www.holmpoakvineyards.com.au.  

Freycinet Vineyard 2021 Louis Syrah

Climate change has seen several of Tasmania's top vineyards become increasingly capable of producing succulent cool-climate shirazes. This one, from the Freycinet Vineyard on the east coast, represents excellent value for lovers of aromatic, spicy reds. The Louis range of wines is designed for everyday enjoyment or for short-term cellaring, and this hand-picked number is right on target. At five years of age, it offers immediate drinking pleasure and is a stylish, medium-bodied red with classic spice and pepper on the nose leading to soft red and dark fruit flavours on a supple palate that also offers some deli hints. Very food friendly - pair with lamb dishes, or a winter pasta and ragu. $35. https://freycinetvineyard.com.au/