Barossa Boy Lifeblood Shiraz 2017

Only the second vintage of Trent Burge’s Lifeblood Shiraz and the path is already clear towards old-fashioned, honest to goodness Barossan Shiraz showcasing the fruits of the region without overripe fruit and a heavy-handed use of oak – not before time. 2017 was not the easiest year in the Barossa and this is a good effort that is still young and taut showing blackberry, chocolate, and ground spice aromas well matched to balanced oak. There is a juiciness and brightness to fleshy dark fruits with ample flavour again well supported by a good dose of oak. Tannins are mouthcoating but also integrated in an open-knit style underpinning a long and savoury finish. A solid result from the vintage to enjoy over the medium term.

Angus Hughson

Founder at Winepilot

Angus is an award-winning wine writer and the Founder and Publisher of Winepilot, the Australian Editor for leading international publication VINOUS with Antonio Galloni based in New York City and the Co-Publisher of The Australian Ark with over 15 years of publishing, writing and judging experience.

Critic and publisher