Bindi 'Pyrette' Shiraz 2017

The addition of the Heathcote-sourced shiraz under the Pyrette label confirms Bindi as one of the greatest small producers in Australia.” JAMES HALLIDAY

Michael Dhillon, owner/ winemaker at Bindi wines in Macedon, is one of the most thoughtful, passionate and compelling vignerons in Australia. He is the second generation and current custodian of the Bindi vineyard in the cool hills of Gisborne, just north of Melbourne. It is still one of the most beautiful, well planted and well managed vineyards I’ve stepped foot in in Australia. It's an amazing place to visit. 

The vineyard is famous for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vines, but Michael also produces a Shiraz, from the Heathcote region, about 45 minutes further north. Heathcote is warmer and drier than Macedon, and is famous for its vivid red, ancient Cambrian soils, which have proven perfectly suited for Shiraz. This wine is from two vineyards; one near the township of Colbinabbin and one near Col Mountain. Both vineyards are farmed sustainably.

We love seeing Pinot Noir winemakers try their hand at Shiraz, because there is a precise focus on balance, elegance and freshness, that comes from the astute farming and deft wine making touch required to produce quality Pinot. This is on display here, with Michael’s picking date decided on to ‘capture vibrancy and freshness’, balanced with the ‘mouth filling richness and length’ that Heathcote Shiraz delivers.

The wine is packed with red and black fruits, though they are not overblown. All are woven in tightly with a nice even flow as the palate builds. Flavours are black cherry, plum, spice, clove, charcuterie, green olive and pepper. The wine is medium bodied, pushing full, with a lovely savoury line.

2017 was an awesome vintage in Victoria, especially around Heathcote, a vintage without extreme temperatures, and this duel vineyard wine reflects that, with balance that will ensure 10 years cellaring.

Mr James Halliday agrees awarding 95 points, and only 800 cases are produced.