De Iuliis 2011 Shiraz

Mike de Iuliis is one of the rising stars of the Hunter Valley - a recent tasting of his new releases revealed a winemaker very much in the zone - and this is the second of his wines I've recommended recently. It is a very good example of one of Australia's classic - and under-appreciated - styles; medium-bodied Hunter shiraz. Everything is very much in balance here. There's plenty of fruit power but also some some subtle, almost feminine aspects. There's spice and undergrowth notes, too, but they aid and abet rather than intruding in any way. Likewise the well integrated oak. This is a red wine that can easily be cellared, but is also appealingly bright and fresh and juicy in its youth. Good work. $25. www.dewines.com.au.