Some of the most respected names in New World Winemaking remind us why they deserve their reputations, with new releases up to 97 points in this week’s Wine Spectator Insider. For Australia, the latest reviews of the Two Hands Ares Shiraz, Aphrodite Cabernet and Aerope Grenache are out, joined by other achievers from Penfolds, d’Arenberg, Yalumba and longtime Penfolds winemaker John Duval’s eponymous label.
93 pts John Duval Eligo Shiraz 2009
Focused, expressive, dark and brooding, with plum, black cherry and subtle spice notes that show a touch of leather as the finish presses on against a veil of fine tannins. Features depth and deftness. Shiraz. Best from 2015 through 2020. From Australia. – H.S.
92 pts d’Arenberg The Blind Tiger Single Vineyard Shiraz 2010
Fresh and expressive, with vibrant raspberry jam and red plum flavors that play against grainy tannins, as well as some gravelly aromatics on the finish. This has presence, and evolves with each sip. Drink now through 2020. – H.S.
91 pts d’Arenberg J.R.O Afflatus Single Vineyard Shiraz 2010
Hard-edged, with rocklike tannins around an aromatic core of black currant and licorice flavors, persisting impressively as the finish opens up. Needs cellaring. Best from 2015 through 2020. – H.S.
91 pts d’Arenberg Shipsters’ Rapture Single Vineyard Shiraz 2010
Distinctly floral, with violet overtones to the red berry and cherry flavors, this is smooth in texture and expressive right through the finish. A graceful, stylish wine that should develop nicely with cellaring. Drink now through 2020. – H.S.
91 pts d’Arenberg The Amaranthine Single Vineyard Shiraz 2010
A racy style, with chewy tannins around a lithe core of blackberry, black pepper, licorice and tar flavors, coming together seamlessly. Needs time in the cellar. Best after 2016. – H.S.