2004 Yarra Yering, Sangiovese Yarra Valley, Victoria

Forget Australian Chianti, think is excellent. An initially austere, cedary nose is followed by gorgeous sweet fruit in the mouth with a seductive richness and velvety texture. This is perfectly balanced by a firm yet ripe tannic structure. Delicious now, give this a couple of years to show its best.

With the climate becoming hotter, drier and dustier it’s little wonder that some of the more temperate grape varieties such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are being replaced with sturdier, more Mediterranean types such as Sangiovese and Viognier; less of a drain on water quotas certainly.
(David Berry Green, BBR Buyer)