Shelmerdine (Heathcote / Yarra Valley) –
“Merindoc” Shiraz 2004 – A barrel sample of the first release of this single vineyard Heathcote wine that was made by Sergei Carlei from Carlei estate. Inky black in colour – a big, brooding, powerful wine that at the same time shows some balance and class. This wine has a strong nose of truffles, earth and violets. It is still very young and primary, but it is shaping up very nicely indeed. I’ll be keeping my eye out for it when it is released later this year. 91/100
“Heathcote” Shiraz 2004 – Minerals, pepper and just a hint of floral elements and apricot from the Viognier (3%). Palate has good flavour. Nice, but seems like it will be best enjoyed in its youth.88/100
“Yarra Valley” Chardonnay 2003 – Elegant in style – flinty, minerality, just a deft touch of oak and malo-lactic influence. Mouth feel is good but perhaps just a bit broad. Will drink well over the next 3-4 years. 88/100
“Heathcote” Merlot 2004 – Fruit driven nose of plums, berries and spice. Has a vibrant palate with medium intensity and a medium length finish. Will be best over the next few years. 87/100
“Heathcote” Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 – Not too bad but fairly oak dominant and tannic at present. Would be leaving this a couple of years to see if it comes back into balance with the fruit. 86/100
“Yarra Valley” Sauvignon Blanc 2005 – Grass and herbs on the nose with a mild, mid-weighted palate. Crisp finish but lacks interest. 85/100
“Yarra Valley” Pinot Noir 2004 – Thin, bland and uninspiring. There are some vegetal notes on the palate. 80/100