WTN: `02 Nugan Durif Manuka Grove Vineyard, SE Australia.
It is always tough trying to figure out when these Durifs are ready to drink. This one has been cellared for a couple of years and I thought would go nicely with spice-rubbed rack of lamb.
Good natural stained cork, 14% alc, around $24 Cdn. Opened and decanted for 2 hrs, not much sediment noted.
Color. Big dark and inky. Intense purple tinges on rim w. no sign of age.
Nose. Chocolate, blackberry, plum, cherry, licorice. Some alcohol noted?
Palate. Big wine is my initial mouthfeel entry thought! Deep flavors here...earth, spice, generous mocha. Plum, brambleberry, blackberry and some raspberry too. Chewy tannic structure, packs a punch with long length on finish. Could be some heat here on reflection. "Needed good beef or game stew" was a taster comment. Could use some time in the cellar, do forumites drink this on release?!!
Will look out for other vintages for sure and drink before they cart me away.