Red dry
In 1100, an errant arrow loosed by Sir Walter Tyrrell, ancestor of the Tyrrell family, killed William II of England (known as Rufus). Today, the site of this infamous incident in the New Forest, England, is marked by the Rufus Stone. This Shiraz blend, produced from the Heathcote vineyard, is named in honour of this chapter in the Tyrrell family history. The Heathcote vineyard was planted in 1994 on ancient Cambrian soils (black shale, microcrystalline quartz, ash with fossils) in Central Victoria, north of the town of Heathcote. These ancient soils are synonymous with the region and lend the wine its unique structure.
The wine is beautifully balanced, intense and bold. The grape juice was fermented using a combination of open and closed fermentation methods. Maturation took place primarily in French oak barrels for 12 months (20% new). Intense flavours of black plum and dark chocolate, notes of white pepper and mulberry, supple tannins and the influence of oak come together to create a full-bodied, vivid wine.
Serve at 16–18 °C with red meat dishes or richer stews with vegetables.
An outlier of the range, moving away from the spiritual Hunter turf. Ancient Cambrian soils, the oldest in the world. This wine was once a behemoth. Today, tidily compact and eminently drinkable despite the fuller weight, sweeter brood of fruit and the reductive ode to tension. Tapenade, blue fruit, iodine and a hint of menthol. A little gritty across the edges, but will placate those on the hunt for richer, slightly throaty styles. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
Founded in 1858 by English immigrant Edward Tyrrell, Tyrrell's Wines is one of Australia's most famous family-owned wineries. The family's vineyards stretch from its historic home in the Hunter Valley near Sydney to the Limestone Coast and Heathcote. Run by fourth-generation family member Bruce Tyrrell, the winery produces some of Australia's most awarded wines, including the iconic "Vat 1 Semillon." The Hunter Valley's sandy, alluvial soil is ideal for white grape growing. There are 11 vineyards in the region that are more than 100 years old, 7 of which belong to the Tyrrell family. Tyrrell's is one of the founding members of Australia's First Families of Wine. Since 1971, Tyrrell's has won more than 5,000 trophies and medals, and was named Winery of the Year by James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion in 2010.
Wine Style
Tyrrell's Wines are characterized by the distinct character of the region and grape varieties. The winery's philosophy is one of minimal intervention, aiming to reveal the natural uniqueness of the vineyards.
Prestigious Vineyards
Tyrrell's Wines owns several prestigious vineyards, which are among the oldest and most highly regarded in the Hunter Valley region:
These prestigious vineyards are complemented by other smaller vineyards, each with its own unique characteristics, located in various regions of Australia.
Aging and Drinking Period
Tyrrell's Wines are known for their excellent balance between freshness and complexity, making them enjoyable both young and aged. In particular, the "Semillon" wines have a significant potential to age and develop over time. The "Shiraz" wines can also be aged, but their optimal drinking period depends on the specific vintage and style.