Terre à Terre Crayères Vineyard Cabernet Shiraz 2022

Time and time again, it is the tannin profile in fruit off the Crayères Vineyard in Wrattonbully – with soils and geology dating back 35 million years – that both delights and, occasionally, astounds. Tannins – invariably naturally integrated – help so much to give the wines a sense of place and presence, but always remain a bit of a background note for both drinkers and critics, alike. That, in itself, says a lot. So, take it as read, that the tannin profile adds that X Factor to this wine (and its score). Cabernet Sauvignon (57%) and Shiraz (43%) go head to head and it makes for something a little savoury, a little minerally, a little earthy and generous in flavour. Dark fruited, spice-fuelled with chocolate and notes of earth and leather roll across the tongue effortlessly. It’s both warm and friendly but also structured. Those tannins together with the grapes’ natural acidity – the springs and gears of the wine – looking good. Shines bright now, but neither will it dim over the next 10 years or more.