- Grampians, VIC - $24-$32
- Screwcap
- 14.5%alc
In my opinion, under the labels of Bin No.0 and Thomson Family, Best's produce as true an expression of single varietal shiraz as there is in Australia. Best's entry level shiraz, Bin No.1, may not have scaled the long-living heights of its esteemed stablemates just yet, but most vintages of Bin No.1 have faithfully reflected Great Western style, at a more than considerate price.
Although present, the anticipated regional influence of pepper (white in this case) takes a back seat to ripe aromas of purple plums, black cherries and choc-licorice in Best's 2009 Bin No.1, with a very soft, smooth vanilla oak influence allowing its fruit to shine through in a convincing, if slightly plump, style. For the most part, its similarly ripe yet classically dark-edged palate is fairly soft, fruity and juicy. It extends with flavours of dried blackberries and licorice towards a pleasingly long, well drawn out finish, softly coated by an approachable, faint coverage of light, dusty tannins, which only adjust the wine with moderate grip. Fortunately, there are well bred hints of clove and gentle spice in the aftertaste, just to remind you whose wine you're drinking. Just.
O From the hot, dry, ultimately challenging 2009 season, Best's has fashioned a ripe and juicy Bin No.1 without the brand's trademark finesse, but with plenty of easy drinking, short term appeal. It's not the best Best's though. Drink to 2014.
89 points
This region has the perfect climate for growing the the best shiraz grapes.
ReplyDeleteI do struggle to find good places to eat around there though..... :/
ReplyDelete