Riposte The Cutlass Shiraz 2023

Strictly speaking, this could easily be labelled Syrah such is the wine’s medium-bodied, cool climate, high spice factor. While the taste of the wine makes a persuasive argument for using Syrah as its varietal term, I can only applaud the decision to retain its Australian name and identity. It speaks of its Adelaide Hills roots and the region’s lively, spice-laden aromas: full-on black pepper, acacia, briar, sage, liquorice, black plum, blueberry and black cherry. Inviting, invigorating and fresh, they carry seamlessly through to the palate. Bright, detailed acidity leads the way working in unison with fine, firm tannins laying the groundwork – and drive – for dark fruits, peppery spice, dusty cacao, meaty oak spice and background bramble and leaf herbals. The Cutlass is well named, moving fast with plenty of dash straight to the point, and that is to promote one terrific cool climate Shiraz.