Head Red Shiraz 2023

The barrels used here were largely ex-Chardonnay, which is an interesting twist. The vineyards which provided the fruit – there were ten of them – are mostly higher altitude vineyards in the Eden Valley (60%) with the rest from the Barossa (40%). The vines are between 15 and 80 years of age. The wine includes 1% Viognier, which was co-fermented. Maturation was for a year and a half, with 5% of the wine doing time in new French barrels. A plum/purple hue, the nose is redolent of black cherries, graphite, cocoa powder, black fruits and ripe plums. Alluring perfumes abound. There is a line of fine acidity, good balance, a sleek texture and real persistence. The palate sees the emergence of dark chocolate and smoked meats. Love it. A ten year proposition. This is such great buying.