Beyond Mud? Logan Ridge of Tears Mudgee Shiraz 2011

Source: Sample
www.loganwines.com.au


‘Making the best possible Mudgee Shiraz is painstaking. Only the best soil at the right altitude and slope, restricting the vines to low yields, plunging the ferment by hand, basket pressing and oak mellowing. And that’s just the parts we can control.’


A heartfelt, well worded statement that from Pete Logan – one of the new breed of Mudgee producers trying to recraft the region’s image.

This wine, too, is Mudgee back to front. Loads of black earth (‘Mudgee mud’) and fudge in that hearty, utterly secondary and savoury Mudgee style. There is also typically prominent acidity, dry, almost Nebbiolo like ferrous tannins… and black earth. It’s the sort of wine that will live forever, but lovers of bright, juicy fruit driven reds aren’t going to enjoy this much. Personally I’ve got a soft spot for characterful Mudgee wines and this is certainly one of the better modern examples. Still just a little uncompromising though…

Drink: 2013-2030
Score: 17.5/20, 91/100
Would I buy it? On a wine list as a ten year old. Not quite there yet.