John Duval, Plexus 2009

The 2009 edition of the John Duval Plexus is a colourful affair – not just because of the lively purple hue of the wine in the glass, but the vibrancy and playfulness of the perfumed fruits as they hit the nose and then pass across the palate.

John Duval is perhaps best known for his role as winemaker of Grange for many years, but since leaving that revered post, he has remained true to the traditions of Barossa winemaking and he ensures careful balance in his wines and uses only the best of new French oak.

Although the blend (Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvedre) is led by floral and plummy Shiraz, the Grenache adds a spicy sweetness before it shows a glimpse of wild herbs and cassis at the back. There’s ample oak for support but for me, it’s a little more than “toasty”. At the moment, you’d best describe the oak as “abundant”, although that should help the wine to stand the test of time.

It’s a good wine that rates highly, but you’d expect that at around $35 to $40 a bottle. It’s probably one I’d wait to buy on special!