Rymill, a distinguished producer within the Coonawarra appellation, consistently crafts wines that articulate the region's distinctive terroir. Coonawarra is globally renowned for its unique 'terra rossa' soil – a narrow strip of red clay loam over limestone – which provides an ideal foundation for viticulture, particularly for red varietals such as Shiraz. This specific soil composition, coupled with a cool maritime climate, ensures a long, slow ripening period, fostering optimal flavour development and retaining natural acidity.
The 2018 vintage for Shiraz in Coonawarra was generally favourable, allowing for the production of wines with excellent concentration and balance. Rymill's winemaking philosophy for this Shiraz aims to capture the varietal's inherent power while maintaining elegance and regional typicity. The wine typically undergoes fermentation in stainless steel before maturation in a combination of French and American oak, carefully selected to impart complexity and structure without overshadowing the fruit. This considered oak regime contributes subtle spice and integrates seamlessly with the wine's core, yielding a structured, age-worthy expression.
Tasting notes
The Rymill Coonawarra Shiraz 2018 presents a deep ruby hue with a vibrant purple rim. On the nose, it offers an aromatic intensity, revealing concentrated dark fruits such as blackberry, plum, and cassis, interwoven with notes of black pepper, liquorice, and a subtle hint of menthol or eucalyptus, often characteristic of Coonawarra. Underlying nuances of cedar and vanilla from considered oak maturation are also present.
The palate is full-bodied and structured, with a core of ripe dark fruit mirroring the aromatic profile. It is framed by firm yet refined tannins and a refreshing acidity that provides balance and length. Layers of spice, dark chocolate, and a savoury earthiness emerge, leading to a persistent finish. This wine demonstrates excellent potential for cellaring, promising further complexity with age.