Schubert Estate The Sentinel Shiraz 2016

The Marananga sub-region of the Barossa Valley speaks so clearly in this delightful Shiraz. The area lies on ancient red soils, rich in ironstone and quartzite close to the Valley floor, and is a favourite place for sourcing Shiraz from makers such as Penfolds, Hentley Farm, Chateau Tanunda, amongst others. Schubert delivers lifted scents of dusty cacao, macaroon, aromatic spice, fennel seed, set among a trove of black fruits and fleshy, sweet blueberries. Marananga brings an upfront juiciness to Shiraz fruit combined with a natural ferrous, mineral-led fineness. Even in its youth, which the 2016 definitely is, there is an elegance emerging. Fine, firm tannins from time in new and seasoned French oak are nicely combined. Concentrated and intense, I noted in my tasting that it is a meal in itself. With that in mind, save a glass to savour by itself.