New Release Shiraz – March 2024

Silver Spoon Estate – The Hallmark – Shiraz – 2018. This is quite lovely. Superbly ripe fruit that has been handled beautifully in the winery. This is supple, fine and elegant, with great intensity and depth, though this is not much more than medium bodied. So approachable now, that it is hard to imagine why anyone would age it. but the very fine tannins and polished acidity will ensure that this will keep for a decade or more if desired. Gentle liquorice and spice notes build. 15.0% alc – 95pts – $80

Leeuwin Estate – Art Series – Shiraz – 2022. This is fine and elegant, with lots of fine, cedary oak and spice notes to complement the fruit. This is a lovely wine. Silky mouthfeel, near seamless palate transition and intrinsic, though not overt depth and power. The balance is a highlight. A fine wine that will only get better for a decade or more. 13.5% alc – 95pts – TBC.

Galafrey – Dry Grown Vineyard – Shiraz – 2019. A rich, yet elegant wine that is stuffed full of ripe plum fruit, but remains balanced and fresh. The intensity and power are balanced by a nervous acidity keeping the whole package alive and fresh. Liquorice, spice and graphite tannins lead to a slightly chewy close. Value. 14.0% alc, 94pts – $35.