St Hugo Barossa Shiraz 2012
I loved the 2010 version of this Shiraz. Nailed it. One of those wines were you think ‘where did that come from’.
But this ’12 underwhelms just a little. It’s still a rich and generous Barossa Shiraz, but that extra level of intensity and tannins just isn’t quite there.
Deep red with a little purple, this is chocolatey and plummy, immediately announcing its Barossa openess. Alongside that fruit is a oak. Maybe a little American oak in there? Certainly some vanilla oak on the nose. Lots of oak actually. Boo hiss on the oak. There’s gummy, rather sweet fruit underneath, the style pulpy and barrel sample-esque but also a little confected and simple.
Where is the tannins and length of the 2010? Oak tannins to finish as well. Good, but I expected more. Drink: 2016-2030. 17.7/20, 92/100
Details: 14.5%, Screwcap, $54.99, Sample
Would I buy it? I’d drink a glass or so but better off waiting a year or so for more enjoyment.
Buy online: Dan Murphys, St Hugo website
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2 Comments
Some attempt should be made to explain the huge divergence between this review of St Hugo Shiraz 2012 and your December 14 tasting of the same wine that is very positive. Age? Different palate moment? Simply changed your mind (which is fine, just not insightful)?
No probs Mary,
Oak was the main reason why this dropped a little in my mind, as the oak tannins dominated things a little too much the second time around.
Given time I think this should integrate better so I’m not worried!