St Hugo Barossa Shiraz 2012

July 23, 2015

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

2012, Barossa, Shiraz

Andrew Graham was once voted the 23rd most trusted wine critic on the planet. A WCA Journalism Young Gun now old hack with 25yrs as a buyer, judge, journalist, marketer and too much more.

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2 responses to “St Hugo Barossa Shiraz 2012”

Mary Moore

June 20, 2016 at 6:23 am

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)?

Reply
1. Andrew Graham
  
  June 20, 2016 at 7:14 am
  
  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!
  
  Reply