2021 Tyrrell's Vat 9 Shiraz, Hunter Valley

Created in 1962 by the late Murray Tyrrell, and I had became well aware of it by the mid-1960s as my weekend trips to the Hunter became more frequent. The fruit for Vat 9 is hand picked from the best parcels off ancient red clay soils over limestone with a minimum age of 50 years. The wine overflows with lively, spicy fruits that dance in the mouth as the oak joins in the savoury core, reflecting the maturation in 'mostly newer' oak for the usual 14 months. There also appears to be some whole bunches involved. Drink to 2046.

96 points James Halliday for Halliday Wine Companion, July 2023 

The 2021 Vat 9 Hunter Shiraz is everything we want and expect from quality Hunter Valley Shiraz: medium-bodied, mineral, elegant, saturated with red fruit flavor and layered with exotic spice. The tannins are key to enjoyment here; they are very fine, ductile, almost whippy in shape and texture and show such extreme elegance that one cannot imagine what more one could want from tannins. They serve the fruit perfectly. This will only get better. And better. And better. Drink to 2041.

95+ points Erin Larkin for The Wine Advocate, February 2023

Deep-ish red with a good tint of purple and a reserved bouquet that showcases dusty/earthy/terracotta and tar aromas, the palate powerful yet soft and fleshy, the tannins svelte and smooth, with good extract and roundness. Sweet fruit core. Easy to enjoy already and will age long and productively. Drink to 2037.

95 points Huon Hooke for The Real Review, July 2023

Tyrrell's has been part of the Hunter Valley's winemaking story since 1858, making it one of Australia's oldest family-owned wineries. Five generations of the Tyrrell family have built an extraordinary reputation for producing wines of authenticity, longevity and regional character, with Chris Tyrrell continuing to champion the estate's historic vineyards and traditional approach.