2014 McHenry Hohnen Tiger Country Tempranillo, Margaret River

A 61/24/15% blend of tempranillo, petit verdot and graciano from three estate vineyards, separately vinified, cold soaked with partial wild yeast ferment of 85% destemmed/15% whole bunches, foot-stomped, hand-plunged, basket-pressed, matured for 14 months in French oak (10% new). Bright crimson; the bouquet is super-fragrant, with predominantly red cherry and some blueberry fruits, the palate upping the game with purple (plum), licorice and strongly textured tannins. Unusual wine. Drink by 2030.

94 points Special Value James Halliday winecompanion.com.au

Winemaker David Hohnen and brother-in-law and vine-grower Murray McHenry say 'the land is good for growing grapes and for tiger snakes!'. This has bright red cherry and dark plum aromas, a fleshy texture and fine, ripe tannins that add bite to the finish.

92 points decanter.com

McHenry Hohnen Tiger Country Tempranillo from Margaret River is a bold, savoury red that puts a uniquely Australian stamp on this classic Spanish variety. Named after the rugged, untamed nature of the southern Margaret River landscape, Tiger Country is all about wild beauty, structure, and energy—bringing together Mediterranean varietal character with coastal finesse.

The fruit is sourced from Hazel’s Vineyard, a biodynamically farmed site just a few kilometres from the Southern Ocean. The vineyard’s gravelly loam over clay soils and cooling maritime breezes provide ideal conditions for growing Tempranillo with both power and freshness. Longer ripening under these cool-climate influences helps preserve acidity and aromatic complexity while building plush, dark fruit at the core.

Hand harvested and wild fermented with partial whole bunches, the wine is aged in a mix of seasoned French oak barrels, allowing the variety’s earthy, spicy edges to shine through without oak dominance. The approach is all about retaining purity and texture.

In the glass, Tiger Country Tempranillo is aromatic and brooding, offering notes of black cherry, plum, leather, cocoa, and warm spice. The palate is medium to full bodied with chewy, rustic tannins, layers of dark fruit, dried herbs, and a savoury, smoky finish that makes it an ideal partner for grilled meats, chorizo, or hearty vegetarian dishes.

This is a muscular yet thoughtfully made wine, perfect for those who love Tempranillo with an edge. It’s a standout example of how Mediterranean grapes can thrive in the soils and climate of Margaret River.