2022 Barr-Eden Estate Mengler’s Hill Dreams of Gold Shiraz

Barr-Eden Estate is a storied piece of land situated at the crest of Mengler’s Hill, one of the highest points of viticulture in Australia. Well-known grape-grower Joel Mattschoss first acquired fruit from the site, which sits atop the ancient goldfields of the Eden, in 2014, to produce the first small batch Love Over Gold wine with Frenchman Pierre-Henri Morel. After the passing of the estate’s owner, Barossa icon, Bob McLean, in 2015, a venture began between the two, along with friends Michael Twelftree and Tim Hower, to become the new custodians of this special property.
Dreams of Gold comes from vines planted in 1997 and 2013 with maturation taking place in 2 year old puncheons. Impenetrable inky black colour with a deep dark purple black tinged hue. Wafting out of the glass are heady dark plum, liquorice and blackberry fruits which are complimented by vanillin cedar, hints of scorched earth and peppered fennel like notes. Rich dark plum, liquorice and blackberry fruits saturate the full bodied palate. Opulent yet fresh in its feel, notions of vanillin cedar, earthy fennel and blackpepper line the back half. Velvety yet sturdy tannin structure. Excellent power and textural volume with a long sumptuous conclusion that’s laced with a dash of blackpepper.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.2%

Other Reviews…..
Blackberry, black cherry, chocolate and liquorice, sage, nutmeg and spice, dried roses. It’s full-bodied, but has excellent shape and thick stony tannin, black fruit, some beef jerky savoury flavours, and again that sizzled sage perfume in the mouth. Lots of flavour, so much presence, but it keeps itself controlled, because the quality of the tannin here is the thing that sets it apart from many. Excellent. Drink 2024-2032.
94 points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front