2018 Wirra Wirra Original Blend Grenache Shiraz

In 1972, cousins Greg and Roger Trott produced a dry red wine from grapes grown on Greg’s vineyard adjacent to the small Bethany Chapel opposite Wirra Wirra. This blend of Grenache and Shiraz became the first ‘Church Block’. Over the years Trott evolved Church Block in to its current format of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot. Yet there were those who bemoaned the loss of the original blend of Grenache and Shiraz. So at various times over the years, when the planets have aligned, Wirra Wirra re-creates the Grenache Shiraz offering and releases it under the imaginatively titled ‘Original Blend’ moniker.

A delicious blend bursting at the seams with rich fruit.

A blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Shiraz matured for 9 months in seasoned French oak barriques.
Opaque dark red black colour with a bright dark red hue. The nose features ripe dark raspberry, plum and liquorice scents followed by earthy vanilla notes and spicy pepper. Rich, juicy dark raspberry, plum and liquorice fruits flood the mouth giving it a fleshy feel. Elements of earth and vanillin spice sit underneath. Velvet smooth tannins finishing long and succulent.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews….
Named in honour of the first such blend established decades ago, cabernet included in the blend from time to time. This wine emphatically says no cabernet needed. It has a fragrant violet and rose petal bouquet, then a juicy, flowery palate with red fruits providing all that is needed. A spectacular success for '18, beseeching you to drink copious amounts over the next few years. Drink by 2025.
95 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion