At the Tapanappa tasting I attended today I picked up your typical press review sheet. The familiar list of names were present; James Halliday, Jancis Robinson, Huon Hooke, Campbell Mattinson, Gary Walsh, Andrew Jefford etc. But then I noticed a name down the bottom of the Cab/Shiraz page: Andrew Graham of Oz Wine Review. What a delight to see you here Andrew, listed alongside some of Australian wine's greatest writers; if it's good enough for Brian Croser it's good enough for me!
I couldn't help but talk to the Tapanappa team about you AG, and they responded with glowing praise; mentioning what a top bloke you were when they met you in Sydney. Good on you Andrew!
Thankyou, thankyou.
ReplyDeleteI like the whole ethos behind the Tapanappa range: Terroir driven and with an (understandable) old world bent.
Definitely a superstar of the future (and watch out Petaluma!).
Here is the full review, rather than the selectively edited one on the bumf sheet. Poor form.
ReplyDeleteTapanappa Whalebone Vineyard Cabernet Shiraz
This is (wine-industry leader) Brian Croser’s new venture – though it’s a collaborative effort with some other parties. It’s a single-vineyard wine of great aspiration. The 2003 was the first release. We’re re-running the review of the 2005 from last year, as it should still be current for most of 2009.
2005 RELEASE
This release is less immediately impressive than the 2004 (which we gave ninety-five points) and certainly not as weighty, but its structure and polish are A-class. Fine, elegant, curranty fruit flavours, velvety tannins, hay-like, sawdusty French oak and a sweet, jubey finish. They don’t come much classier. DRINK 2014–2024.
2006 RELEASE
The structure and impact of the preceding two releases seem to be missing here – though this still has a lot to recommend it. Gravel, blackcurrant, dried herbs and toasty, tarry flavours characterise it, and it has good length. The oak has settled beautifully into the wine, and it sure is balanced; it just lacks a bit of get up and go. DRINK 2012–2018.
Price
$71.50
Region
Wrattonbully
Alcohol
13.5
Seal
??
Value
***
Auction
N/A
Score
94 (2005)
91 (2006)
GW
PS. We gave the 06 Merlot 94 points (tasted back in Jan09).
ReplyDeleteGW
Thanks for the comment GW!
ReplyDeleteIt certainly is quite a carefully edited press release isn't it?
I find it interesting how you've been edited down to a couple of lines whilst Andrew has scored a whole paragraph. Wine marketing is such a funny game....
I definitely agree with your bottom line here on the 06 Cab/Shiraz, but perhaps more importantly on the 06 Merlot, which was one of the best Aussie merlots I've had for some time.
All the same Tapanappa is undoubtedly a very exciting new Australian wine development, and one I'm sure many people will be keeping an eye on. Personally I can't wait for future releases of that pinot noir.
Cheers,
Chris P
p.s.
ReplyDeleteThe entire range of Tapanappa is presently sealed with top quality corks and after a little chat with Brian Croser, it sounds like this trend might continue for a little while yet.
Thanks again