Tyrrell's 2021 Vat 9 Shiraz: A Masterpiece of Hunter Valley Winemaking

Tyrrell’s 2021 Vat 9 Shiraz

In the rich tapestry of Australian wine, Tyrrell’s Vat 9 Shiraz stands out as a symbol of excellence and tradition. The 2021 Vat 9 Shiraz continues this legacy, showcasing the unparalleled quality that has made this wine a cornerstone of the Hunter Valley’s reputation. Crafted from the finest parcels of fruit from Tyrrell’s historic estate, this Shiraz embodies the essence of its terroir and the meticulous craftsmanship of the Tyrrell family.

The Vineyard: A Heritage of Quality

The Vat 9 Shiraz is sourced from some of the oldest and most revered vineyards on the Tyrrell Estate, particularly from the ‘Ashmans’ property. The vines that contribute to this wine have a minimum age of 50 years, deeply rooted in the red clay soils over limestone, which impart a distinctive character to the wine. The majority of the Vat 9 blend is composed of grapes from the Weinkeller and Short Flat vineyards, both of which play a crucial role in the wine’s complexity and depth.

The Short Flat Vineyard, located directly north of the Tyrrell’s Estate driveway, is a mosaic of vine ages, with the Mathews and Contours blocks forming an integral part of the Vat 9 blend. These blocks, planted in 1968 at an elevation of about 115 metres, contribute the rich, concentrated fruit that defines this flagship Shiraz.

A Remarkable Vintage: The 2021 Growing Season

The 2021 vintage was a standout year for Hunter Valley winemaking, with weather conditions that aligned perfectly to produce exceptional fruit. The year began with the breaking of the worst drought in a generation, as substantial rainfall during the autumn and winter months rejuvenated the vineyards. This led into an outstanding growing season, marked by a cool summer that provided even, stress-free ripening.

A timely heatwave around Australia Day accelerated the final stages of ripening, ensuring that the fruit developed intense flavours balanced by high natural acidity. The early budburst and later-than-usual harvest allowed for extended hang time on the vine, further enhancing the complexity and concentration of the fruit.

Handpicked and carefully sorted in the vineyard during the second week of February, the fruit was kept separate and fermented in open-top vats. The individual wines were then matured in mostly newer French oak casks (2700L), before the final Vat 9 blend was assembled in November 2021. The blend was then matured for an additional five months before bottling, resulting in a wine of remarkable depth and elegance.

Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavours and Texture

The Tyrrell’s 2021 Vat 9 Shiraz is a wine that captivates with its vibrancy and finesse. In the glass, it presents a deep, vibrant purple hue, hinting at the intensity of the fruit within. The nose is regal and lifted, offering an enticing mix of spice, dark fruits, and a subtle hint of oak that adds complexity without overwhelming the primary aromas.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, showcasing great intensity and a velvety texture that speaks to the quality of the vintage. Flavours of blackberry, plum, and dark cherry are interwoven with notes of spice and a touch of earthiness, all beautifully balanced by the wine’s natural acidity. The oak influence is subtle, providing structure and depth without overshadowing the fruit.

What sets the 2021 Vat 9 Shiraz apart is its effortless palate structure. There are no rough edges; instead, the wine displays a harmonious balance of fruit, acid, oak, and tannin. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering impression of dark fruit and spice that invites another sip.

Food Pairing: Enhancing the Experience

The 2021 Vat 9 Shiraz is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Its medium body and balanced acidity make it an ideal companion for red meats, particularly lamb, beef, or venison. The wine’s spice and dark fruit profile also make it a great match for dishes with rich, earthy flavours, such as a slow-cooked beef stew or a mushroom risotto.

For a more refined pairing, consider serving this Shiraz with roasted duck or a well-aged steak, where the wine’s complexity and depth can complement the richness of the meat. The subtle oak notes also make it a great match for dishes with a touch of smokiness, such as barbecued meats or grilled vegetables.

Aging Potential: A Wine Built to Last

While the Tyrrell’s 2021 Vat 9 Shiraz is already showing beautifully in its youth, it is a wine that will continue to evolve and develop with time. With proper cellaring, this Shiraz will age gracefully over the next decade or more, with the fruit softening and the tannins integrating further, revealing additional layers of complexity and nuance.

As it ages, expect the wine to develop secondary characteristics, such as notes of leather, tobacco, and dried herbs, while retaining its vibrant fruit core. This aging potential makes the Vat 9 Shiraz a wine to enjoy now, but also one to hold onto for special occasions in the future.

A Hunter Valley Classic

The Tyrrell’s 2021 Vat 9 Shiraz is a wine that embodies the best of Hunter Valley winemaking. It is a wine of exceptional quality, crafted from the finest fruit and made with the utmost care and attention to detail. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future enjoyment, the 2021 Vat 9 Shiraz is a wine that informs, educates, and entertains the palate, offering a true taste of the Hunter Valley’s rich winemaking heritage.

For those who appreciate the art of fine wine, the 2021 Vat 9 Shiraz is a must-have addition to your collection. It is a wine that will not only enhance your dining experiences but also provide years of enjoyment as it matures and evolves in the cellar.