Longview Hen’s Teeth Shiraz 2018

Adelaide Hills gets all manner of accolades for a number of the varieties grown there, but far too many winelovers ignore their glorious Shiraz (or sometimes, Syrah, if the winery wants to emphasise the connection to the Rhône Valley in France). Undoubtedly, the Shiraz made here does have more in common with some of the best hailing from the Rhône, with their elegance and complexity, than they do with the big, bold and rich examples from the Barossa and McLaren Vale (not that there is anything wrong with those wines). This is a compelling example of that.

The name, ‘Hen’s Teeth’, is a gentle reminder that while many may think great Hills Shiraz is rare. Anyway, this one is a cracker. Made from Estate fruit from their Macclesfield vineyards, the grapes are crushed, before undergoing a cool fermentation over 10 days. There is 20% in tank for malo, and the remainder in hogsheads. Maturation, which is for fifteen months, is in French oak hogsheads, of which 20% are new, 30% 2^nd use and the rest a mix of 3^rd and 4^th use.

The wine is deep maroon in colour. A finely crafted style, it opens with hints of aniseed, dry herbs, leather, warm earth and tobacco leaves. This is a complex and refined Shiraz, seamless on the palate and there is no question that the team has taken advantage of an excellent vintage for the region. The texture is delightfully creamy and there is seriously impressive length here plus lots of tannins, but they are very fine. For me, ideal with a rare steak now but it will also handle a decade in the cellar with ease. Excellent value.