By Andy Young
McWilliam’s Wines is launching a trio of premium, single vineyard wines, which will be housed within the brand’s flagship range and priced at around $40 per bottle.
The company said that the new wines represent “McWilliam’s philosophy of championing two of New South Wales’ emerging cool climate regions – Hilltops and Tumbarumba”. The wines were crafted by McWilliam’s Senior Winemaker, Andrew Higgins, and include a 2014 McWilliam’s Parkes Single Vineyard Chardonnay, 2014 McWilliam’s Single Vineyard Hilltops Shiraz and 2014 McWilliam’s Single Vineyard Hilltops Cabernet Sauvignon.
Higgins explained that the cool climate and higher altitude environment for growing these grapes helps to stamp a powerful flavour on the wine, which appeals to many.
“As you increase the altitude, you also take on more risk during the growing phase,” Higgins said. “It takes longer for the fruit to ripen, and you are at the mercy of unexpected weather patterns, such as frost.
“Positively, the grapes have better flavour and aroma retention, and the resulting wine conveys a superior freshness and structure. Generally cooler climate fruit provides an opportunity to make very elegant, medium bodied wines that pair excellently with food, which is what consumers are currently seeking.”
Speaking about this vintage, Higgins added: “2014 was a supremely perfect growing season. Below average winter rainfall and warm, dry weather resulted in open canopies, low yields and intensely flavored fruit.”
The McWilliam’s Single Vineyard wines will be available from March 2017, recommended retail price $40.
Why would you want to pay $40 for a bottle of Hilltops Shiraz or Cabernet when Dan’s sell the exact same wine for $15.99 and it’s called Barwang.