Glaetzer-Dixon La Judith Shiraz 2017 6 x 750ml Hop Vine & Still

The Glaetzer-Dixon La Judith Shiraz 2017 is an opulent and complex expression of Tasmanian Shiraz, crafted from one of the Coal River Valley’s oldest vineyards. With its low-yielding vines and concentrated fruit, this Shiraz offers a remarkable depth of flavour and a luxurious, plush texture.

Key Information and Highlights:

• Region: Coal River Valley, Tasmania, Australia
• Variety: Shiraz
• Vintage: 2017
• Vineyard: Single vineyard, mature vines in one of the valley’s oldest sites
• Yield: Extremely low yields, small berries, and tiny bunches for maximum concentration
• Critic Scores: Awaiting specific reviews but noted for its opulence and complexity

Producer Background: Glaetzer-Dixon is a renowned boutique winery in Tasmania, led by winemaker Nick Glaetzer. Known for pushing the boundaries of cool-climate winemaking, Glaetzer-Dixon consistently produces wines that are expressive and true to the unique terroir of Tasmania. The La Judith Shiraz is a standout in their portfolio, sourced from a small, meticulously managed vineyard that produces intensely concentrated fruit. This wine is crafted with the utmost care, ensuring that each bottle reflects the vineyard’s history and the region’s exceptional conditions.

Flavour Profile:

• Appearance: Deep garnet with a vibrant clarity.
• Nose: A rich and aromatic bouquet with notes of pfeffernüsse (spiced gingerbread cookies) and cherry preserves. The nose is further layered with aromas of cracked white pepper, star anise, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ripe red fruit, offering a complex and inviting experience.
• Palate: On the palate, the La Judith Shiraz is luxurious and deeply concentrated. Dark fruits like black cherry and plum dominate, supported by plush tannins and a smooth, velvety texture. The spice elements from the nose carry through, adding complexity and depth. The wine’s balance of fruit, spice, and tannin creates a harmonious and long-lasting finish.
• Conclusion: The Glaetzer-Dixon La Judith Shiraz 2017 is a wine of remarkable opulence, combining intense dark fruit flavours with intricate layers of spice and plush tannins. It is a superb example of what cool-climate Tasmanian Shiraz can achieve, offering both immediate pleasure and the potential for long-term cellaring.

Inspiring Food Pairing Ideas: This Shiraz pairs beautifully with rich, robust dishes that complement its depth and complexity. Consider pairing it with slow-cooked lamb shanks, beef short ribs, or venison stew. The spice notes in the wine also make it an excellent match for dishes with warm, earthy flavours like Moroccan tagine or spiced roast duck. For cheese pairings, choose aged cheddar, gouda, or a smoky blue cheese. For dessert, a dark chocolate torte or spiced poached pears would highlight the wine’s spiced and fruity profile.