Utopos Mataro Shiraz Grenache 2022

Stuart McCloskey "What a bouquet. So distinctive – such individuality. Fresh pine needles, blueberry, blackberry, cranberry, lavender, rosemary, clove, savoury spice, bell pepper, fennel seed, and Habanero pepper – smoky and lifted fruit. Sensational and one of the most captivating bouquets of the year… The palate carries the ’22 hallmark – Lavish, curvaceous whilst being supported with perfect freshness, which provides lift and balance. This wine has lots of soul along with skilful winemaking. All three varietals work in harmony. No sign of dominance – simply, a perfect marriage with each varietal gifting their own personality. The palate entry is sweet, lavish (albeit controlled). I feel like I have been dropped into a pine forest mountain – the valley floor covered with an abundance of wild blueberry, raspberry, blackberry, elderberry along with rose hip. Wonderfully floral – super long too. The tannins are fine and fan out across the palate. Incredibly moreish. Really scrummy, says the winetaster reaching for his third top-up. Served using Zalto Bordeaux glassware. Decanted for 2-hours. Drink now (give it a little longer in the decanter) and enjoy over the next 15-years. Exceptional release…"

Kym Teusner "I have a hard time deciding if this is my favourite wine from the vineyard or the Cab Shiraz….  22 isn’t the year that gives me a clear cut winner.

Colour is medium density with dark blood red hue.  The aromatic opens all dark fruited and brooding.  This is what I love about Mataro.  The dirty complex opening of truffle and dark fruit like blood plum that gives way to the prettiest perfumes of Asian spice and florals.  The special thing in this wine that 22 offers is the wafts of blue fruit and fennel that complicate the aromatic along with hints of dried citrus peel and dill reminiscent of garrigue.

The palate is dense and lively, driven with a rhubarb like acidity and dark plummy fruits.  The truffle and mocha notes add to the mouthcoating texture of the wine.  The spice is initially very understated but evolves with time in the glass and will continue to do so as the wine ages in bottle.  The tannins are fine but supportive.  So damned satisfying and moreish."