Myattsfield Durif 2022

Accolades

Wine Companion – 94 Points

“This comes from the first rootling(s) of the variety to be brought into Western Australia. A vision splendid. This is elegant and durif in the same breath. Not often said! Supple texture, just over medium weight, silky tannins shaping things gently, coolness under the dark, sticky, riper blackberry and dark plum fruits. Lots of spice too, clove and cinnamon, some alpine herbs and mintiness in tow. Chocolatey to an extent, but a sideshow to the richer fruits and spices. Just-so and lovely, gentle and refined. Doesn’t miss power, but does so with understatement. Winning red”

Ray Jordan – 94 Points

“Durif can be mighty difficult to handle, and if in the wrong hands can get away from you. This is one of the best I have tried in recent years. For a start it’s not as big but still has the persistent power. Big whack of spicy dark fruits with a dry earthy and subtle licorice infusion. Blackberry and cherry with a mocha-like character. Precisely balanced with a seamlessly integrated palate. A restrained version – relatively – that works really well”

Tasting Notes

🔹Appearance: In the glass, the 2022 Durif showcases a striking, deep hue reminiscent of dark ink, indicative of its intense character.

🔹Aroma: The nose is rich and complex, offering a bouquet of stewed forest berries, preserved plum, chocolate-licorice, cola, and kirsch. These aromas combine to create a bold and inviting profile.

🔹Palate: On the palate, this Durif is concentrated and full-bodied, with a thick texture that leans towards port-like qualities. The flavours of stewed forest berries, ripe plum, and chocolate-licorice dominate, complemented by sweet spice and brandy-soaked dried fruits. Its substantial tannins envelop the fruit, adding depth and structure to the wine, creating a balanced yet powerful red.

Food Pairing Suggestions 🍷

• Hearty Meat Dishes: This Durif pairs perfectly with juicy steaks, roasted game meats, or grilled lamb.
• Rich, Savoury Dishes: Enjoy with beef stew, braised short ribs, or slow-cooked meats, where the wine’s robust character complements the richness of the dish.
• Aged Cheeses: The wine’s complexity also makes it a great companion to aged cheeses like cheddar or blue cheese, where the flavours and tannins balance beautifully.

Best Serving Temperature:
Serve this wine at 16-18°C to allow the full expression of its rich aromas and bold flavours, ensuring a round, balanced experience.

Vineyard & Winemaking

• Vineyard: The Durif grapes are grown in the cool, elevated region of the Perth Hills, where the climate allows for slow ripening, contributing to the intensity and concentration of flavours.
• Winemaking: After hand-harvesting, the grapes undergo maceration and fermentation. The wine is then aged for 18 months in American oak barrels, which softens and refines its tannins while preserving the grape’s natural character.

Wine Specs

• Varietal: 100% Durif
• Region: Perth Hills, Western Australia
• Alcohol: 14.5%
• Vineyard: Estate Grown
• Bottling Date: 2022
• Volume: 750ml

FAQ Wine Terms 🤔

❓Durif: A red grape variety known for its dark, inky colour and robust, full-bodied wines. Often produces intense, tannic wines with rich fruit flavours.

❓Maceration: The process of soaking the grape skins in the juice to extract colour, flavour, and tannins.

❓American Oak Barrels: Oak barrels used for aging wine, contributing flavors of vanilla, spice, and a toasty character.

❓Tannins: Compounds found in grape skins and seeds, contributing structure and texture to the wine. In this Durif, the tannins are substantial, enhancing its full-bodied profile.