Myattsfield Durif 2023

Accolades

Ray Jordan – 95 Points
“These guys were the first in WA to bring in durif, and it’s a variety that seems so well suited to the Perth Hills. This was a super vintage, and I have to say, I don’t think I’ve seen a better example of this variety from anywhere in the state. It’s rich and powerful with plush fruits, but there’s a softness and a lovely, velvety texture. Sweet, ripe fruit, spices, dark chocolate, soft tannins, and just a little bit of oak. The slightly cooler season allowed this wine to gently pick up flavour. It’s a cracker”

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.