The Wine Front

October 2009

Campbell Mattinson

This shiraz is made by Ben Portet and I think it’s a first release.

PIt fits snugly into the mould of ‘small maker, modern Yarra Valley’ shiraz. It’s bitter and challenging, sweet-scented and finely tannic. You need to let it breathe, and you need to take a good hard look at it. Or taste of it, as the case may be. Plums, dark cherries, charcuterie, spices, cedarwood. That kind of thing. It tastes like it’s hand-crafted, and it tastes like it comes from somewhere. Notes of hazelnuts and coffee grounds too. Warmth. It needs at least another six months, if not another 18 months, in bottle to start showing itself properly.

Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Drink: 2012-2017

Mindfood, Food & Drinks

Jan Feb 2010

Wines of the Month, Angus Hughson

It will come as a surprise to some that Australian shiraz doesn’t have to knock your head off with lashings of ripe fruit. This Yarra Valley Shiraz is only medium weight but lacks nothing in the density – of –fruit department. Savoury, dusty mulberry fruit is well supported by toasty oak with fine tannins drawing out a long, lingering finish. This wine would be best enjoyed in five year’s time.

Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Drink: 2012-2017

The Sunday Telegraph

January 30th 2010

John Fordham

Impressive Yarra Valley release crafted by young Ben Portet delivers rousing and lengthy soft berry flavours.