2008 Were Estate The Moorabbin Shiraz

Were Estate is located in the prestigious Wilyabrup sub-region of Margaret River, sharing such esteemed neighbours as Moss Wood, Cullen and Vasse Felix. A relative new comer, the estate was established by the Davies Family, with vines planted in 1998. The family wasted no time however, engaging talent and regional expertise, with Ian Bell (of Moss Wood fame) making the reds until the 2009 vintage, when former Vasse Felix winemaker Clive Otto took the helm of the winemaking team. Clive is a former Winestate Magazine Australian Winemaker of the Year, with over twenty years experience working top quality, Wilyabrup fruit into some of the country’s great wines. All these factors combine to present another surprise discovery from this premier wine region.

Matured for 24 months in French oak barriques. Totally opaque black dark crimson red colour with very deep dark crimson red hue. The nose displays scents of blackberry, liquorice, vanillin confectionary and spice followed by a hint of pepper as an end note. Full bodied the palate possesses excellent richness with flavours of ripe blackberry, liquorice and confectionary with a light toasty oak overlay and spicy back palate. Very fine grained velvet smooth tannins – perfectly balanced. Excellent length with long blackberry, liquorice, toast and spice aftertaste.
Cellar 4-5 years (20115-2016).
Alc 14.5% Other Reviews.....
A curious name, that of the house JB Were built in Brighton, Melbourne in 1842, and now a suburb name. This winery started life as We're Wines, with no link to the Were family claimed. Regardless, this is a classy shiraz, rich and juicy berry fruit seamlessly folded in quality oak and tannins. Drink by 2023.
95 points
James Halliday - Australian Wine Companion