About

Welcome to an independent exploration of the world of wine. Here, we uncover the fascinating journey of grapes from vine to glass, discover the dedicated winemakers and their origins, and delve into the unique flavors that make each bottle an experience. I'm not a sommelier, nor do I have any affiliations with wine importers or stores. I'm simply a wine enthusiast who enjoys documenting my tasting adventures and insights, all while maintaining the utmost impartiality.

The grapes for this wine come from 3.3-ha Murdoch Hill vineyard in Oakbank planted by Michael Downer in 1998 on 390 meters above sea level. Soils are predominantly sandy loam over medium clay subsoils, with varying levels of ironstone, quartz and schist. The Oakbank area is a little warmer than some of the pockets of the Hills where Gareth grows his Pinot Noir, making it the perfect place to grow spicy, slippery, peppery cool-climate Shiraz. It's made in the same way as the Pinot Noirs with 100% whole bunches and a quarter new oak.

Ratings

March 28, 2023

4.0·@Wix Kyiv Office · Oceania of Time

Delicate and energetic Shiraz. Musky bouquet with black forest berries, earth, meat and violets. Juicy on the palate with good acidity. Good tannin and fruit. Yet overall, it's more animalistic and mineral than fruit-forward.

January 3, 2022

4.0·@Boris

Great and not typical Australian Shiraz. Delicate and complex. Dark ruby colour. Aromatic and slightly reductive bouquet with blackberry, vanilla, cranberry and pepper. Unexpectedly crisp with dry medium tannin and good balance. Long and flavourful finish.