Yarra Valley is traditionally better known for Cabernet rather than Shiraz, as is the Margaret River. But just like premier producing region of WA, when the Shiraz is done right here it is a brilliant example of the variety, a style more reminiscent of Cote Rotie than any other region in this country. For many years Yarra Yering and Yarra Yarra then Yering Station and most recently De Bortoli flew the flag producing world class Syrah or Shiraz wines from the cool climate of 'the valley'. Having rated the 'Reserve' wines (Chardonnay, Cabernet and Pinot) of Coldstream Hills over the years, I was very keen to look at their first foray into a Reserve Shiraz after making a 'regular' version in their $35 Estate Range for many years. This emanates from the exceptional 2006 vintage.
 
Clearly the team at Coldstream Hills saw what I saw when deciding to bottle a separate Reserve bottling in 2006. The aromatics of this wine draw you in instantly, the florals intertwined with liquorice and spice give the impression that there may have been some Viognier contact somewhere along the line. My old adage that 'if it keeps you guessing, then you have enough' rings true here. The palate continues with liquored cherry, cinnamon and cloves and even a hint of mushroom character to add to the complexity and deviate from the absolute cleanliness it had shown to this point. This is up with the best I have had from these parts which is a big call but it is a stunning wine. Exceptional in fact and can be enjoyed over the next decade. Drink: Now – 2020; Quality: Exceptional BW; WineStar© March 2010
 
In a very welcome twist, we are offering this wine - which retails at cellar door for $45 per bottle - in our Loyalty Section for as low as $29.92 per bottle! Please note, this is for one week only (or whilst stocks last) and a reminder that this is indeed the 2006 Reserve, not the Estate level wines which actually retail for more than our offer price also!
 
Fragrant aromas of rose petal and plums with black pepper and spice, lead into the medium-bodied palate, which has silky tannins and length to the dark plum and cherry flavours, the oak well-integrated and balanced. Screwcap. 14.5% alc. Rating: NR* Drink 2018; James Halliday Wine Companion. *Not Rated by James Halliday as he founded this winery and still acts as a consultant.
 
Fleming has calmly set about putting his personal seal on the Coldstream Hills wines, including the multi-award- winning Reserve Chardonnay and its equally revered Reserve Pinot Noir. His sense of style is best seen in the current Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon from the warm 2006 vintage – a multi-layered gem with the innate refinement of this classic variety. Likewise, his 2006 Reserve Shiraz is elegant, subtle and spicy in the Rhône Valley mode. Indeed, elegance is a hallmark of his style, reflected in the more affordable Yarra Valley range sourced from various sites in both the Lower Yarra and the Upper Yarra Valley. Winemaker of the Year 2009 finalist: Andrew Fleming, Coldstream Hills by James Halliday, Australian Gourmet Traveller, Wine

Well we’re all in for a rare old time when Yarra Valley Shiraz starts looking better than Cabernet. This is a lovely spicy wine packed with dark cherry, raspberry and leather scents backed with tasteful French oak. In the mouth medium bodied, fluid and smooth with fine grained tannins and just a little warmth. The rich Maraschino cherry flavours mingling with spice and earth are particularly fetching. On the first day I thought I sniffed a waft of tinned corn, but tasting on the next day it had vanished like the Jolly Green Giant. Lengthy, composed and drinking superbly right now - a delicious wine. Rated : 94 Points; Tasted : Oct08; Alcohol : 14.5%; Closure : Screwcap; Drink : 2008 - 2014; Gary Walsh; The Wine Front
 
To create the Reserve Wines of the Coldstream Hills winery, each year outstanding parcels of grapes are earmarked for special attention, using 100% French oak barriques. When the resulting wine is regarded as outstanding it is released in strictly limited quantities. While the fruit in the Reserve Shiraz remains the driving force, there is more focus on structure and complexity. The Reserve Shiraz is made to live for a decade or more. Medium dark red with a purple hue. Fragrant characters of rose petal and plums with black pepper spice and underlying toasty oak. Medium bodied in style with silky tannins and length. Dark plum and cherry characters dominate with attractive spice and toasty oak. An elegant style with concentration and complexity. Coldstream Hills