Viniou Reviews
Tyrrell’s Vat 9 Shiraz 2022 is a distinguished red wine from the renowned Hunter Valley in New South Wales, Australia. Crafted exclusively from the Shiraz grape, the 2022 vintage reflects both the expertise of the Tyrrell family—one of Australia’s oldest winemaking dynasties—and the character of the region’s unique terroir. The Vat 9 cuvée is known for its selective parcel blending, using fruit from some of the estate's oldest and most prized vineyards. This method enables a wine of both depth and finesse, presenting classic Hunter Valley Shiraz elegance with a lifted, red-berried fruit profile, subtle spice, and earthiness. The 2022 vintage was shaped by a relatively mild growing season, contributing to well-balanced ripeness and refined tannins. Winemaking at Tyrrell’s remains hands-off, favouring open fermentation and maturation in larger older oak barrels, allowing the vineyard expression to take centre stage without overwhelming new oak influence.
The Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine region and is especially notable for its distinct climate. Unlike the typically hot climates of much of Australian wine country, the Hunter enjoys maritime influences with moderation from coastal breezes. Soils here tend to be well-drained sandy loams or volcanic in origin, imbuing the wines with both freshness and a signature earthy complexity. The region’s winemaking history dates back to the early 19th century, with Shiraz as one of its hallmark varieties, lauded for a more medium-bodied, savoury style compared to some riper, full-throttle South Australian counterparts.
For food pairing, Tyrrell’s Vat 9 Shiraz 2022 shines with dishes that echo its refined structure and savoury undertones. Traditional Australian barbecued lamb, beef brisket, or venison would all be superb matches, while a classic local pairing could be slow-cooked kangaroo or duck with native spices. For those preferring regional European inspiration, consider mushroom risotto or roasted root vegetables with rosemary.
To fully appreciate its aromatic depth and texture, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for about an hour prior to serving is recommended to allow the wine to open and reveal its full spectrum of aromas and flavours. This vintage also shows good ageing potential, making it an excellent candidate for cellaring over the next decade.
