Whole-bunch fermentation and maturation in large format oak. Uncommonly deep colour given the whole bunches, likewise the density of the savoury black fruits. It's hard to reconcile this wine and its 2020 sibling (red cherry fruits), but so be it. While rich and medium- to full-bodied, the black fruits and spice (rather than tannins) carry the day. Points: 95/100
Deep, bright red-purple hue, the bouquet reserved and earthy/pepper/spicy, the wine is intense in the middle-palate, lively and energetic with good acidity and tight focus. Very smart wine in a leaner and more elegant Barossa style. Points: 93/100
This is an intense and heirloom-style shiraz with blackberry, black mushroom, spice, bark, and a dark earth character. Full-bodied with chewy tannins and a tight, focused finish. Mushroom skin and fruit, yet a subdued ending. Give it time to open. Drink after 2024 for it to soften. Points: 95/100
80% Flaxman Valley, 20% Stone Well. 25% whole bunch. Old French oak. Perfumed, dark red fruits, spice, a smattering of sage and mint. Medium-bodied, supple and juicy, a subtle blood orange flavour in the mix, fresh and lively, with a bright crushed berry aftertaste, and fine sooty tannin grip. Lovely. All just so. Points: 94/100
Plenty to like here in what is a modern Barossan style with 25% whole bunch fruit softened by 18 months aging in older, ex Chardonnay oak. It opens up beautifully, no doubt thanks to the generosity of the 2021 vintage, with roasted meat and spice aromas underpinned by tar, liquorice and juicy black cherry fruits. It’s then plush and velvety with stalky tannins rising up to provide backbone to a pleasing finish. Worth letting this wine settle for a couple of years for those tannins to better integrate. Points: 92/100
