Rising Star: Shepherd’s Hut
Barry Weinman: 23rd July 2025
The 2017 pinot was the wine that brought Shepherd’s hut to my attention. A fantastic effort (especially at the price) and a wine that is still drinking brilliantly today. If anything, the 2018 was even better and remains a go-to wine when I am looking for a mid-week glass wine.
Since these wines, Laura Wishart, the third generation vigneron at Shepherd’s Hut has worked closely with winemaker Rob Diletti to fine tune vineyard management and has introduced a proportion of whole-bunch fermentation to add texture to the wines, particularly, the premium Michael Mayo pinot.
And with the 2023 vintage, it is crystal clear that these efforts have come to fruition. Both the standard pinot and the Michael Mayo stood out in recent tastings, and represent excellent value at their respective price points.
The first impressions of the 2024s are very positive indeed. At this early stage, the standard pinot is better drinking, but a year or two should see the Michael Mayo blossom.
As a side note, the 2023 shiraz is spectacular drinking. This is by far the most delicious red wine the panel has tried in recent months, when it comes to early drinking pleasure.
Reviewed
Shepherd’s Hut – Shiraz – 2023. This is super vibrant and fresh, and bursting with succulent red and black fruits. I can’t get over just how gob-smackingly delicious this is right from the get go. Raspberry, fragrant plum and hints of floral notes. Underneath this, there are subtle earthy notes, with flashes of liquorice and spice, and a light dusting of tannins and acid to keep the palate in balance. Whilst this is all about the immediate drinking pleasure today, a few years in the cellar will see this gain greater depth. 13.8% alc – 94pts – $30.
Shepherd’s Hut – Michael Mayo – Pinot Noir – 2024. I love the nose for its seductive allure. Plush, ripe strawberry tinged fruit jumps from the glass. It took a bit of air before this really came to life, with dark cherry fruit, textural tannins and refreshing acidity all combining into a rather splendid drink. At this early stage, this is not a showy wine, rather, it is something to be sipped and savoured, whilst contemplating life’s great mysteries (such as whether to have beef cheeks or bolognaise for dinner accompanied by this fine wine). 13.2% alc, 95pts – $55.
Shepherd’s Hut – Pinot Noir – 2024. Straight out of the bottle, this was a touch subdued, (it is very youthful), but as it sat in the glass, the sweetly perfumed fruit came right into focus, supported by a backbone of fine tannins and well-judged acidity. The fruit lingered for some time on the palate, adding to the appeal. The other judges put this in gold medal territory, being impressed by the fruit quality and supple winemaking. Drink now – 2030. 13.3% alc, 93pts $37.
Shepherd’s Hut – Michael Mayo – Pinot Noir – 2023. This is a wine that focuses on ripe, high-quality fruit. Cherry and strawberry come to mind, supported by subtle oak and the finest of tannins. Almost delicate in complexion, this is a charming, high-quality wine which is immensely enjoyable, with excellent length and persistence on the close. 13.1% alc – 95pts.