Glaetzer 2019 vintage release - a year of balance

The Glaetzer family has long been revered in the Barossa Valley for their exceptional winemaking prowess and commitment to quality. The 2019 vintage from Glaetzer Wines stands as a stellar example of their dedication to tradition and innovation. This article explores the unique aspects of the 2019 vintage, the standout wines from this release, and the critical acclaim they have garnered.

The 2019 Vintage: A Year of Balance

The 2019 growing season in the Barossa Valley presented winemakers with a more moderate climate compared to previous years. Although still experiencing some challenges with lower rainfall, the cooler temperatures during key ripening periods allowed for a longer growing season. This resulted in grapes that achieved optimal ripeness and balance, producing wines with remarkable depth and finesse.

The Wines of the Glaetzer 2019 Vintage

Glaetzer Amon-Ra Shiraz 2019

As the flagship wine of Glaetzer Wines, Amon-Ra Shiraz is renowned for its power and complexity. The 2019 vintage exemplifies these qualities while introducing a new layer of elegance.

• Tasting Notes: The 2019 Amon-Ra Shiraz presents a deep garnet colour with a nose that reveals dark fruit aromas of blackberry and plum, mingling with notes of espresso, cedar, and a hint of violet. On the palate, it offers a rich and full-bodied experience with flavours of blackcurrant, dark chocolate, and a touch of anise. The tannins are finely woven, contributing to a long, sophisticated finish.
• Critic Reviews: Jancis Robinson praised the 2019 Amon-Ra, noting its "exceptional balance and depth," and described it as "a masterclass in modern Shiraz."

Glaetzer Anaperenna 2019

The Anaperenna blend, which combines Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, is designed to highlight the synergy between these two grape varieties. The 2019 release is a shining example of this harmony.

• Tasting Notes: The 2019 Anaperenna showcases a vibrant ruby hue with an aromatic profile that includes black cherries, cassis, and nuances of tobacco and spice. The palate is layered and complex, featuring flavours of ripe blackberries, dark chocolate, and a touch of mint. The tannins are smooth and well-integrated, leading to a long, polished finish.
• Critic Reviews: James Suckling highlighted the 2019 Anaperenna for its "seamless integration of flavours and superb aging potential," rating it as one of the standout blends of the vintage.

Glaetzer Wallace Shiraz Grenache 2019

The Wallace Shiraz Grenache blend is crafted to be approachable yet deeply expressive, making it a favourite among a wide range of wine enthusiasts.

• Tasting Notes: The 2019 Wallace features a bright crimson colour with enticing aromas of raspberries, cherries, and a hint of spice. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with fresh red fruit flavours, a subtle earthiness, and fine-grained tannins. The finish is lively and balanced, making it a versatile wine for various occasions.
• Critic Reviews: Sarah Ahmed of The Wine Detective lauded the 2019 Wallace for its "vibrant fruit character and impeccable balance," noting its immediate appeal and drinkability.

Glaetzer Bishop Shiraz 2019

The Bishop Shiraz, named in honour of Ben Glaetzer’s ancestors, is crafted to highlight the purity and depth of Barossa Valley Shiraz.

• Tasting Notes: The 2019 Bishop exhibits a deep ruby colour with a bouquet of blueberries, blackberries, and hints of black pepper and vanilla. The palate is rich and concentrated, with layers of dark fruit, spices, and a touch of liquorice. The tannins are robust yet silky, providing a long, satisfying finish.
• Critic Reviews: Neal Martin of Vinous praised the 2019 Bishop as "a quintessential expression of Barossa Shiraz," commending its "excellent structure and depth."

Critical Acclaim and Reception

The Glaetzer 2019 vintage has been met with widespread acclaim from wine critics and enthusiasts. The balanced conditions of the growing season, combined with the Glaetzer family’s meticulous approach to winemaking, have resulted in a lineup of wines that are both powerful and refined.

Highlights from Critics

• Jancis Robinson: Esteemed wine critic Jancis Robinson highlighted the 2019 Glaetzer wines for their "exceptional balance and depth." She noted the Amon-Ra Shiraz as "a masterclass in modern Shiraz" and the Anaperenna as "a beautifully crafted blend."
• James Suckling: James Suckling praised the 2019 Glaetzer wines for their "seamless integration of flavours and superb aging potential," particularly commending the Anaperenna and Bishop Shiraz.
• Neal Martin: Neal Martin of Vinous described the 2019 Glaetzer wines as "quintessential expressions of Barossa Valley terroir," applauding their structure, depth, and aging potential.