Mandala is the vision of the Smedley family of Melbourne. An estate vineyard in Yarra Junction was planted in 1999, with additional vineyards following in Dixons Creek. Specialising in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Mandala wines are high quality, elegant and exceptional value..
Mandala Shiraz 2018
Yarra meets a peripheral northern Rhone pocket. Think Crozes. Perhaps Saint Joseph. Far from prosaic, this is a delicious rendition of pulp, perfume and all that syrah/shiraz can deliver when in the right hands and in the right possie. Think violet, blueberry, nori, tapenade, a whiff of meat and a skein of peppery acidity for length, freshness and a big grin. Drink in large drafts. No point in ageing. Reduction massaged into pleasure.
Rating: 95 Points
Source: Ned Goodwin, Halliday Wine Companion 2021
Mandala Shiraz 2018
A significant step up in quality on recent releases of this label. We’re in business here. Ripe cherry-plum flavours meet sweet cedarwood, five-spice, pepper and smoked meats. It’s both hearty and refreshing, in its own way. It’s a lovely wine.
Rating: 93 Points
Source: Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front
