When we think of McLaren Vale, what do we think of? Some of the world’s best wineries, and in particular, some mighty fine red wine.
Hugh Hamilton is a family owned and operated winery, with 180 years of history and bloodlines behind them.
Black Blood to be exact.
We were treated to a tasting at the launch of their exquisite “Black Blood” Shiraz 1, 2, and 3, hosted by the lovely and passionate 5th generation Hugh and 6th generation Mary Hamilton.
The Black Blood series are a trio of wines that represent a wonderful journey into McLaren Vale Shiraz. ‘Terroir’ is a word that encapsulates the taste of a wine due to its unique environment – altitude, climate, rainfall, temperature and soil.
The Black Blood trio are each from a different Hugh Hamilton vineyard with a distinct terroir. They keep everything else as consistent as possible – picking dates, winemaking approach, oak regime, maturation – so you can taste the place.
To start there was plenty of theatre; with a dramatic film playing on the big screen in the barrel shed. Long tables were set for wine tasting with a difference. Headphones to listen to the “mood” of the wine, assorted jars of foods and spices to help in identifying the different smells in the wine, soil samples to touch and feel, and of course, the Black Blood Shiraz.
The emphasis was to engage all senses, and discover the individual characters of each wine, whilst making it fun and playful.
We got to hear from the winemaker himself Nic Bourke (he even poured the wine!) whilst being treated to grazing platters and baked goods.
Each shiraz was made with the same method, care and attention, but grapes from different geological areas of the McLaren Vale wine region. The impact the different soils and conditions made to the wines was amazing. It’s all in the “terroir.”
The verdict?
Delicious, smooth, strong, and sophisticated drops of red!
Number 1 “The Boxer”, hailing from vines around Sellicks Beach. This shiraz packs a punch, with good strong flavours and the perfect level of tannin. Think dark chocolate and coffee beans.
Number 2 “The Burlesque”, from vines not far from the cellar door, presented a smooth and silky mouth feel, with plenty of red berry flavour, and a long finish.
Number 3 “The Ballerina”, sourced from wines in the higher grounds of Blewitt Springs, this shiraz was elegant, with plenty of perfume and bright summer berry flavour.
This was a really great tasting event, with many more to come, so be sure to follow Hugh Hamilton Wines on social media for all the latest news.
In the meantime; any wine lovers will appreciate the cellar door tasting room. It’s simply stunning, with some of the most beautiful views in McLaren Vale. Very pretty this time of year.
Cheers!
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