Established in 1858 by English immigrant Edward Tyrrell, Tyrrell’s Wines is one of Australia’s pre-eminent family owned wine companies with vineyards extending from their historic home in the Hunter Valley to the Limestone Coast (SA) and Heathcote (VIC). Headed up by fourth generation family member Bruce Tyrrell, Tyrrell’s is home to some of Australia’s most awarded wines including the iconic Vat 1 Semillon. Since 1971, Tyrrell’s has been awarded over 5,000 trophies and medals and in 2010 was named “Winery of the Year” in James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion. With the fifth generation, Chris, Jane and John, involved in the business, Tyrrell’s will continue to remain family owned with the simple philosophy of producing high quality wine that people love to drink.

Produced from one of their oldest vineyards. A classic 1970s style, light to medium bodied Hunter red. Delicate and spicy with great palate length and acid structure. The new oak component acts as a framework to the wine but does not overpower it, with the fruit being the primary focus of the wine.

Johnno’s planted in 1908 on sandy alluvial soils, and thus, quite different to the other Tyrrell’s reds. Tannin profile from vines grown in sand is quite distinct for those that come from red dirt. It’s a bit of a dark horse, most often. Raised in a single new 2700L French cask. Aromatic, ripe raspberry, slight earthiness, subtle vanilla oak in tow. Lighter bodied, bright acidity, fairly dances, great expression of fruit, so well lit up, fine supple feel with a wide feeling sandy tannin and a long red fruited finish. A beautiful wine of effortless charm and style. Tasted: May 19; Alcohol: 13.9%; Closure: Screwcap; Drink: 2021-2040+; Rated: 96 Points; Gary Walsh; The Wine Front

Beautifully tailored structure here, from this plot that was planted in 1908 in sandier soil. There’s a beautifully complex nose with a wealth of raspberries, red plums, nectarines and complex spices, deriving from the use of a new cask that adds particular interest in 2018. The tannins are assertive and gently muscular. Great drive and detail. Drink or hold. Screw cap. Rating: 98 Points; James Suckling