Hewitson Strawberry Hill Shiraz 2023

The fruit comes from an old vineyard in Dorrien, named after the old strawberry patch that grows alongside the vines. 2023 was the coolest vintage in the Barossa since 2011, and this label only released in exceptional years. Open vat fermentation for 3 weeks before 18 months maturation in 30% new and 70% older French oak barriques. Calm and ancient. Holds a sense of composure and that time stands still. It’s obviously Shiraz on the nose with powdery cocoa, fleshy plum, fresh blackberries picked carefully off the cane and soft baking spices. Underneath that is seriousness of deep rose heart, licorice, a sneak of formic acid, warm toast and white pepper spice. The flow is long, measured and exceptional. A wonderful balance of deeply flavoured fruit and judicious oak. Exceptional now and for the next 20 years.