Hewitson Barrel 1853 Shiraz Mourvèdre 2022

Could anywhere else on the planet provide a wine which is a blend of two varieties, both of which date back to 1853, in their own way. A 50/50 split between Mourvèdre and Shiraz, the Mourvèdre hails from the Old Garden Vineyard, with the vines planted back in 1853. The Shiraz is from the Monopole Vineyard, which was propagated from an original 1853 vine, which came from the Old Garden Vineyard. Fermentation sees the use of 75% whole bunches and maturation is in new French oak barriques for a year and a half. The team then select a barrel, their best, of each for blending. Under cork. As one might expect, from the superb 2022 vintage, this is special. Black/maroon in hue, the nose reveals notes of aniseed, chocolate, vanilla, plums, licorice, mocha and blackberries. There is good oak integration and the wine still offers a touch of toastiness. The palate sees cloves and black fruits emerging. Big, bold, powerful and yet so silky and ethereal, there is great length here, immaculate balance and tannins so seductively alluring that they are almost invisible. A stunning Barossa blend, this it will drink beautifully for the next fifteen to twenty-five years. Majestic.