1982 McWILLIAMS PHILIP HERMITAGE Wholesale Price: $60.60 Recommended Retail Price: $9.25 It is becoming more and more difficult to find newly-released wines of this maturity, and quite frankly, this wine is right at its peak. Philip Hermitage is one of the traditional Hunter Valley red wines made by McWilliams from their Mount Pleasant vineyard. The 1982 vintage has settled down into a enjoyable, easy-drinking red which is sure to win friends amongst the traditional drinkers of Australian red wine. It is typically Hunter Valley – rich, round and generous, with its regional characters becoming to dominate those of the grape variety. Shiraz is still arguably the best red wine from the Hunter, and it is certainly the grape on which the region has built its red wine reputation. This mature example has a tawny red hue of medium depth, in brilliant condition. Clearly old and developed, it certainly looks the part. Typically spicy, earthy and rich, the nose is classic old Hunter, with a hint of volatility and mustiness which contribute to the wine’s complexity. 0The palate is soft and approachable, mouthfilling in flavour and finishes with a soft astringency. It is slightly leathery and round, with developed cooked fruit flavours. Finishing with good length of flavour, this wine is a fine food wine, which should earn a place on many restaurant lists on price and age alone. McWilliams are working hard to develop their image and wine quality, but I hope that things don’t change so dramatically that these mature and easy-drinking wines are no longer available at these prices. I do not anticipate any problem in assuming a year-round supply of the McWilliams Philip Hermitage. Food suggestions: Classic red meat cuts, stonger cheeses. Spicy meat dishes without too much heat could go remarkably well. The wine is at its peak now, so don’t bother cellaring it further.
