First taste: Leeuwin Estate Siblings Shiraz 2012, Margaret River

Margaret River’s Leeuwin Estate fast forged its reputation with its top tier “Art Series” Chardonnay.  Last month’s taste of the latest 2010 release and 2006 vintage confirmed why this powerful, silky wine remains among Australia’s most prized and age-worthy Chardonnays.   While the late blooming Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon is now held in almost similar esteem the Art Series Shiraz  (and, for that matter most Margaret River Shiraz) has yet to convince me.  However, I was positively charmed by the new-to-the-UK entry level Siblings Shiraz.

Leeuwin Estate The Siblings Shiraz 2012 (Margaret River)

The Siblings range (which also includes an oaked Sauvignon Blanc Semillon) is sourced from estate and contract vineyards.  This wine comes from two inland vineyards, one south of the original Leeuwin vineyard (so cool) but also owned by the Horgan family and a long-term grower’s fruit from warmer Wilyabrup to the north. A heady blast of creamy raspberry fruit laced with violets is joined by spicy, black pepper-edged and succulent blood plum and damson on the palate – nice use of whole bunch for spice and frame (15% of the grapes were kept as whole bunches). Medium-bodied with fresh acidity and savoury spice and characuterie notes (it’s aged in 30% new and older French oak barrels for c. 18 months), this highly drinkable blend of 99% Shiraz with 1% Viognier has more than a hint of the Rhône about it.  UK RRP 16.75