Ray Jordan is the WA Wine Critic we all stop and listen to. A lot goes into this list, he has been tucked away busily tasting, dissecting and categorising nearly 650 Australian red wines that sell for $40 or less to put together his much-anticipated list of the Top 100 for 2019.
Here we go then Epicure’s ‘wow we must get that in stock‘ shortlist; have your phone handy as you will want to contact your #epicwine rep
Hesketh Midday Somewhere Shiraz 2017 – Under $15 Category
A star of previous years right back in form with a plush soft and flavoursome shiraz from the limestone coast, where drinkability is the key. These guys are making some mighty good wines at super prices – Ray Jordan, 89/100
In Praise of Shadows Shiraz 2018 – $25 to $40 Category
A new one to me. It’s wild yeast fermented, un-fined and unfiltered and vegan friendly. And it’s a mighty good wine. It’s sourced from Blewitt Springs within McLaren Vale, which I am a fan of for the slightly less opulent and dusty savoury elements it brings to the wines. Excellent wine here – Ray Jordan, 92/100
Ministry of Clouds Tempranillo Grenache 2017 – $25 to $40 Category
Boy, this is scrumptious drinking. Open fermenting, basket pressing and then 10 months in oak have contributed to a smoothly textured delicous wine that expresses so much about the McLaren Vale region. Vibrant and spicy with a light perfume for interest. – Ray Jordan, 93/100
Handpicked Regional Selection Pinot Noir 2017 – $25 to $40 Category
Perfumed notes of cherry and raspberry. Palate has fine chalky tannins in support and some neatly weighted oak. Ideal Pinot in the short term – Ray Jordan, 90/100