Wines Hunter Valley Pooles Rock - Post Office - 2019

Pooles Rock Cuvée Post Office 2019 is an elegant red wine crafted in the heart of Australia’s famed Hunter Valley, in New South Wales. Composed as a blend, although the precise grape varieties are not specified, typical regional blends would often centre around Shiraz, possibly complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, known for imparting both structure and aromatic complexity. The 2019 vintage experienced a warm and dry growing season, leading to concentrated fruit and supple tannins – a hallmark of this cuvée. Pooles Rock is renowned for its meticulous vineyard management and careful vinification, employing both modern and traditional techniques, which deliver a wine of depth, balance and impressive cellaring potential.

The Hunter Valley stands as one of Australia’s oldest and most storied wine regions, with grape cultivation dating back to the early 19th century. The region’s distinctive climate plays a vital role; warm summers are mitigated by cooling breezes, combined with unique, well-drained sandy loam soils atop volcanic clay subsoils. This terroir, along with a long ripening period, brings out firm tannins and expressive aromatics in the local red wines. The subtropical microclimate and relatively high humidity can also enhance complexity, particularly in blends. Historically, the Hunter Valley is celebrated for pioneering some of Australia’s most classic wines and fostering a vibrant wine culture grounded in innovation and respect for tradition.

For food pairing, the silky structure and ripe fruit profile of the Pooles Rock Cuvée Post Office make it an excellent match for a range of dishes. Classic Australian fare such as grilled lamb cutlets with rosemary and garlic, or a slow-cooked beef brisket, will complement the wine’s depth and spiciness. For a local touch, try it with kangaroo fillet or a Hunter-style beef and mushroom pie. The wine also pairs beautifully with hard cheeses like aged cheddar or manchego.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this red at 16-18°C after decanting for about half an hour to allow its aromas to fully unfurl. This temperature will highlight the wine’s vibrant fruit, balanced acidity and finely integrated tannins. The 2019 Cuvée Post Office offers immediate pleasure but will reward further ageing, so consider cellaring a few bottles to experience its development over the next five to eight years.