- 93
1999 Bacchanalia Estate Shiraz
THE BACCHANALIA ESTATE VINEYARD AT BACCHUS MARSH (midway between Melbourne and Ballarat) is yet another new label to appear on the wine scene, however, we’re pleased to say the new ‘Bacchanalian’s’ are more professional than most new comers.The owners are ABC presenter and journalist, John Reid, and his wife Val – which accounts for the ‘gift of the gab’ that the Estate generates so well. The danger for the Reids is to be careful not to take their own publicity too seriously and to back up the PR with very sound wines.
Bacchanalia Estate is nestled on the fertile banks of the Werribee River at Bacchus Marsh and with careful viticultural management, the grapes have responded well. The Reids have also had the good sense to realise that their forte is not winemaking and thus have secured the services of two of Australia’s top winemakers - Stuart Anderson (founder of Balgownie) made the 1998 Shiraz, and subsequently Pat Carmody of Craiglee Estate, Sunbury was employed to make the 1999 Shiraz and 2000 Semillon.
“ BOTH WINES ARE OUTSTANDING.”
TASTING NOTE: This could easily be described as a bargain priced Craiglee, having been made in the Craiglee style by Pat Carmody however, the wine has its own qualities, due to the Bacchus Marsh terroir and viticultural practices.Very deep crimson mauve colour. Delightful aroma, lifted nose of marzipan, plum, toasted oak, vanilla and liquorice, with nuances of white pepper. The palate flavours are intense, but uniquely Victorian, as distinct from the voluptuous style of the Barossa and McLaren Vale. Flavours of spice, blackberry, liquorice and white pepper. Excellent length and persistence followed by a very long toasted oak white pepper aftertaste. Cellar 4-5 years. Stocks are very limited. A must for the collector.RATING: 93/100
VALUE: XXXXX/5