2021 Amon-Ra Shiraz
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Tasting notes
The 2021 Amon-Ra Shiraz is supple and polished and bright, red and purple fruits mingle on the mid-palate while the fine tannins swarm around the perimeter. In the context of Hoffmann fruit wines tasted here today, the Amon-Ra comes off as bright and light; and while I am aware that this is his style, it's fascinating to see it in this lineup. It's juicy and chewy and bright. The tannins are a highlight. 15% alcohol, sealed under cork.
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Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
Vine age 100+ years, ungrafted vines. Predominantly sand over marl/limestone and thin topsoil, some clay also. Yield at less than 2 t/ha. Late harvest in 2021. Destemmed. Open-top 1- to 2-tonne fermenters with refrigeration coils, 12 days at 16–21 °C. Unfined, racking only, vegan friendly. Inky crimson with dark core. Ripe, perfumed, intense with savoury black fruit. Chewy, deep and finely balanced between structure and that black fruit, building to a chewy finish. Power rather than charm at the moment but a little more subtle than I expected. (JH)
This shows notes of plums and blueberries with sweet spices, cocoa, wet stones and some minty undertones. Full-bodied. It is structured and focused with super fine, polished tannins that are melted into the wine. Long and even. Rich but shows freshness and poise. Shiraz. Unfiltered. Drink or hold.
Two thousand and twenty-one is a fascinating vintage of Amon-Ra that will surprise some thanks to its subtle style. Dark cherry, fruit pastilles and raspberry compote aromas are lifted by subtle spice and sweet oak. It's compact yet fleshy, with fresh acidity and silky tannins while still delivering trademark length and balance. A delicious Barossa but best enjoyed over the medium term.