Viniou Reviews
Tyrrell's Cuvée Vat 9 Shiraz 2024 is a shining example of Hunter Valley’s red winemaking prowess. Crafted primarily from Shiraz, a grape that has become synonymous with Australian red wine, this vintage is a reflection of both varietal character and regional distinctiveness. The 2024 vintage benefits from modern vinification techniques while respecting the estate's heritage, with fermentation in open vats and subsequent maturation in a combination of French and American oak. This brings both vibrancy and a subtle layering of spicy oak notes to the bright berry fruit and dark cherry core. The palate offers a classic medium-bodied structure, characteristic of Hunter Valley Shiraz, with silky tannins, lively acidity, and a hint of earthiness that anchors the fruit.
The Hunter Valley, located in New South Wales, is among Australia’s oldest and most celebrated wine regions. It enjoys a temperate climate, with relatively high humidity and significant maritime influence from the nearby Pacific Ocean. This is key in shaping the elegant, medium-bodied profile of regional Shiraz. The soils are diverse, but the best parcels for Shiraz are typically found on red volcanic loam and alluvial sands, which offer excellent drainage and promote slow, even ripening. Hunter Valley’s wine history dates back to the early 19th century and is closely linked to pioneering families like the Tyrrells, whose deep ties to the region ensure continuity of style and quality.
For food pairings, Tyrrell’s Vat 9 Shiraz excels alongside grilled lamb chops, peppered beef fillet, or duck breast. Traditional Australian fare such as slow-cooked kangaroo or a bush tomato chutney will complement the wine’s subtle spice and fruit intensity. If you prefer something simpler, a hearty mushroom and lentil stew or roasted root vegetables will match well with the wine’s savoury undertones.
To truly appreciate this wine’s nuance, serve it at 16-18°C. Decanting is recommended for about an hour before tasting to allow the aromas of dark berry, black pepper, and underlying oak to unfurl. This 2024 release can be enjoyed in its youth for vibrancy and freshness, or cellared for a few years to allow further complexity to develop.
