Shiraz

Shiraz, known as Syrah in some parts of the world, is celebrated for its rich and robust character, and when transformed into a sparkling wine, it offers a delightful and effervescent twist.

The climate and terroir of the Hunter Valley play a significant role in shaping the characteristics of the Shiraz grapes grown there. The region's warm climate, combined with its unique soil composition, contributes to the development of ripe and concentrated flavours in the grapes.

In terms of tasting notes, our Cardinal exhibits the following characteristics:

1. Colour: Deep, intense ruby red with vibrant hues.
2. Aromas: Aromas of dark berries such as blackberries and mulberries, along with notes of black cherries and plums. Subtle undertones of pepper, and a hint of oak are present.
3. Palate: The palate showcases a balance between the ripe fruit flavours and the lively effervescence. Juicy black fruits, accompanied by a touch of dark chocolate and a subtle earthy undertone. The characteristic spiciness of Shiraz is softened in this wine’s profile.
4. Body and Structure: A medium bodied with well-integrated tannins that provide a smooth texture. The sparkling nature of the wine adds a refreshing and invigorating quality to the mouthfeel.
5. Finish: The finish is medium, leaving behind a lingering impression of dark fruit flavours and a hint of spice and sweetness.
6. Food Pairing: Cardinal can pair wonderfully with a range of dishes. Its bold flavours and effervescence make it a versatile choice that can complement hearty fare such as barbecued meats, game, roasted vegetables, and charcuterie. The wine's acidity and bubbles can help cut through rich and savory flavours.

Overall, Cardinal is made from Shiraz grapes grown in the Hunter Valley and offers a captivating fusion of the region's terroir-driven characteristics and the exuberance of sparkling wine production techniques. It's a wine that can make any occasion feel festive and memorable.

The harmonious marriage of these two iconic grape varieties, with the added influence of the specific terroir of the region and the vineyard.

Here's how this vintage of our Shiraz Cabernet blends presents:

Colour: Deep ruby red with crimson highlights, reflecting the wine's concentration and youthfulness.

Aromas: The wine does offer an enticing and complex aromatic profile. Ripe blackberries and dark cherries might dominate, courtesy of the Shiraz, while Cabernet Sauvignon does contribute hints of cassis and subtle green bell pepper notes. The interplay of the two varieties does create an aromatic tapestry that includes nuances of tobacco, dried herbs, and possibly a touch of mint.

Palate: On the palate, the blend might present a medium-full body with a rich and balanced expression. The dark fruit flavours from the nose does transition smoothly to the palate, supported by well-integrated tannins. The Hunter Valley's signature acidity does provide a lively backbone, enhancing the wine's structure.

Terroir Expression: The red soil of the single vineyard does lend distinctive characteristics to the blend. Expect a touch of earthiness and minerality that adds depth and complexity.

Finish: The finish is lengthy and satisfying, with the wine's dark fruit flavours and oak nuances lingering on the palate.

Food Pairing: The wine's balanced structure and blend of fruitiness and complexity make it versatile for pairing. Consider matching it with hearty dishes like grilled steak, roasted lamb, or rich stews. The blend's tannins and acidity does also complement dishes featuring mushrooms or aged cheeses.

Single Vineyard Focus: The fact that the wine comes from a single vineyard highlights its unique character and the ability to capture the essence of that specific site.

Ageability: Depending on the winemaking decisions and the vintage's characteristics, this blend does have potential for modest aging, allowing its flavours to evolve and integrate over time.

Overall Impression: The 2020 Heavy Metal blend from our Sweetwater Vineyard, offers a captivating and layered wine experience. Its interplay of dark fruit, structure, and the influence of terroir does create a wine that appeals to those seeking a well-rounded red blend that reflects both the grape varieties and the unique qualities of the Hunter Valley's terroir.

A wine that emphasizes the freshness of the grape and the minimal intervention winemaking approach. “Nouveau-style” wines are typically released shortly after harvest to showcase the primary fruit characteristics of the grape variety.

Here’s how our surprising Shiraz presents:

Colour: Deep ruby red with purple undertones, reflecting its youthful and intense appearance.

Aromas: The wine's aromatic profile is focused on the primary fruit characteristics of the Shiraz grape. Expect aromas of ripe blackberries, and hints of plum. The absence of sulfur does allow the grape's natural aromatic intensity to shine, possibly with a touch of earthiness or subtle floral notes.

Palate: On the palate, the Shiraz does offer a medium to medium-full body with an immediate burst of fruit flavours. The dark berry notes from the nose might transition smoothly to the palate, accompanied by a lively acidity that contributes to a fresh and lively mouthfeel.

Minimal Intervention: The absence of added sulfur underscores a minimal intervention winemaking philosophy, allowing the grape's natural attributes and the vintage conditions to be the main contributors to the wine's character.

Food Pairing: This style of this Shiraz makes it versatile for pairing with a variety of dishes. Consider enjoying it with grilled meats, charcuterie, pizza, or even slightly spicy dishes.

Overall Impression: The 2021 Preservative Free Shiraz from the Hunter Valley, made without the use of sulfur, does offer a vibrant and joyful wine experience. Its focus on immediate fruit expression, minimal intervention, and the unique attributes of the vintage make it an appealing choice for those seeking a red wine that captures the true essence of the Shiraz grape in a lively and uncomplicated form.

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A harmonious combination of ripe fruit flavours and the subtle influences of oak aging, creating a wine with a pleasing balance between fruitiness and complexity.

Here's how such a wine presents as follows:

Colour: Deep ruby red with vibrant purple hues, presenting youthfulness and intensity.

Aromas: The wine does showcase an inviting bouquet of ripe fruit aromas. Expect a medley of red and dark berries, such as blackberries, raspberries, and dark cherries. These fruity notes is accompanied by a touch of blueberry and possibly hints of plum. The oak aging does contribute subtle vanilla and spice aromatics, enhancing the overall aromatic profile.

Palate: On the palate, the Shiraz does present a medium to medium-full body with a focus on fruit-forward flavours. The ripe berry flavours from the nose does carry over, accented by a touch of dark chocolate or cocoa. The oak influence might manifest as well-integrated hints of vanilla and a gentle, warming spiciness.

Oak Influence: French oak aging does add layers of complexity to the wine without overpowering the fruit. Look for elegant oak nuances that complement and enhance the fruit character rather than dominating it.

Texture: The wine's texture is smooth and velvety, with ripe tannins contributing to a pleasant mouthfeel and structure.

Finish: The finish is medium to long, with the wine's ripe fruit flavours lingering on the palate, accompanied by a subtle touch of oak spice.

Food Pairing: The fruitiness of the wine combined with the gentle oak influence would make it versatile for pairing with a range of dishes. Consider matching it with grilled meats like lamb chops, pork tenderloin, or even a well-seasoned burger. It does also pair nicely with dishes featuring roasted vegetables and savoury spices.

Ageability: While the wine is designed to showcase its vibrant fruitiness in its youth, the well-integrated oak and balanced structure does provide potential for short to medium-term aging, allowing the oak influences to further integrate.

Overall Impression: The 2021 Hunter Valley Shiraz matured in French oak does offer an inviting and approachable style that celebrates the region's ripe fruit characteristics while embracing the subtle complexities imparted by oak aging. Is a wine that appeals to those seeking a fruity and flavourful red with an added layer of depth and sophistication.

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Awards Won

95 points Halliday wine companion 

91 points the wine Front

The 2007 vintage enjoyed warm summer conditions, perfect for maturing rich ripe Shiraz. The end result is generous blackberry & plum with "Hunter" savoury characters of spice and earth, balanced carefully with 60% American & 40% French oak management.

This wine has luscious primary fruit and a great tannin structure to ensure it will age gracefully and reward the patient few.

To celebrate our recent awards, we’re offering FREE SHIPPING on limited wines including the 2021 EPIC Shiraz.

 Awards won:

Gold Small Winemakers show

96 points The Real Review

Gold Hunter Valley Wine show

The Epic range comprises highly concentrated, single-vineyard wines, and this 2021 Shiraz release is no exception. The 2021 vintage produced Shiraz with excellent colour, purity of fragrance, seamlessly integrated tannins with elegant mineral structure. 

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A captivating and harmonious fusion of two iconic grape varieties, combined with the influence of both the specific vineyard site and the winemaker's expertise.

In appearance, the wine would likely showcase a deep, rich colour that hints at the concentration and potential complexity within. The 2021 vintage, marked by its own climatic conditions, would have shaped the wine's hue and overall character.

On the nose, this blend offers a symphony of aromas that balance the characteristics of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. The Shiraz component contributes intense dark fruit notes, possibly blackberries and plums, along with hints of pepper and spice. The Cabernet Sauvignon, on the other hand, brings to the blend cassis, dark cherry, and possibly even subtle herbal nuances. These aromatic elements are enhanced by the French oak, offering additional layers of vanilla, toast, and a touch of smokiness.

As the wine graces the palate its complexity and structure would shine. The skin tannins and the aging in French oak, provide a balanced framework, offering both grip and finesse. The dark fruit flavours observed on the nose might carry over to the palate, alongside the added dimension of the oak's influence.

The French oak barrels contribute to the wine's texture and complexity, integrating seamlessly with the fruit characteristics. The vanilla and toasty notes from the oak could enhance the wine's overall profile without overpowering the varietal flavours.

The finish of the wine is both lingering and satisfying. The blend's balance and structure, combined with the French oak's influence, creates a finish that resonates with a harmonious interplay of flavours and textures.

For a limited time only, we’re celebrating our recent award winners and offering FREE SHIPPING on our Trophy winning Hilltops Shiraz.

Awards won:

Gold Royal Melbourne Wine Show
Trophy Highlands Wine Show

A medium-bodied Shiraz wine from the Hilltops region of Australia in the 2021 vintage is described as follows:

Colour: Deep ruby red with purple tinges, indicating youth and vibrancy.

Aromas: The wine might present a complex bouquet of red and dark fruit aromas. Look for notes of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and plums. Spicy elements such as black pepper and a hint of clove is intertwined with subtle hints of dried herbs and a touch of smokiness.

Palate: On the palate, the medium-bodied Shiraz does offer a harmonious balance of flavours and textures. Ripe fruit flavours from the nose might carry over, accompanied by nuances of dark chocolate and possibly a touch of espresso. The wine's texture is velvety and smooth, with moderate tannins providing structure without overwhelming the palate.

Oak Influence: There is a moderate oak influence. Look for delicate notes of vanilla and hints of toasty oak that enhance the wine's complexity and depth.

Spice and Complexity: The Hilltops terroir does contribute a layer of spice and complexity to the wine, adding to its overall character and appeal.

Finish: The finish is medium to long, with the wine's dark fruit flavours and gentle spice lingering on the palate. Balanced acidity would provide a satisfying conclusion.

Food Pairing: The medium body and balanced characteristics of this Shiraz make it suitable for a variety of food pairings. It is a great match for grilled meats such as lamb or pork, as well as roasted poultry dishes. Dishes with earthy components like mushroom risotto does also complement the wine's profile.

Ageability: This Shiraz does have the potential to age gracefully over a few years, allowing its flavours to evolve and integrate further.

Overall Impression: The 2021 medium-bodied Shiraz from the Hilltops region does represent a classic style that is well-balanced and versatile. Its combination of fruit, spice, and structure does make it an attractive choice for those seeking a red wine that is both approachable and complex, showcasing the intersection of the grape's character and the unique attributes of the Hilltops terroir.

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This Hunter Valley Rosé is made from fruit picked at our Dalwood vineyard, on the banks of the Hunter River. It is fragrant and elegant, with ripe red berry aromas. The palate is smooth with a long savoury texture and a crisp refreshing finish. It is an Australian dry rosé from 2023 offers a unique and appealing flavor profile. Here's how it presents:

Appearance: A beautiful and enticing appearance. It typically has a delicate, pale pink to light salmon color, indicating its elegance and freshness.

Aroma: The nose is fragrant and vibrant. Enticing aromas of red fruits, such as ripe strawberries, cherries, and possibly a hint of raspberry. You may also detect floral notes like rose petals and a touch of subtle spice.

Taste: This rosé is refreshing and lively on the palate. The predominant flavor notes revolve around red berry fruits, with a focus on strawberries and cherries. There is a subtle spice, adding depth and complexity to the taste. The wine is dry, meaning it has minimal residual sugar, allowing the natural fruit flavors and acidity to shine.

Texture: Our Australian dry rosé style is known for its crisp and refreshing texture. It has great acidity, making it a great choice for warm weather or as an aperitif. The mouthfeel is smooth, with a clean and satisfying finish.

Food Pairing: A dry style rosé pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It can complement light and fresh fare, such as salads, seafood, grilled chicken, or even charcuterie. Its acidity and fruitiness make it a versatile choice for pairing with many different cuisines.

Overall, a Classic rosé made offers a delightful balance of fruitiness, acidity, and elegance, making it a fantastic choice for wine enthusiasts looking for a refreshing and versatile option.

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Dalwood Estate Shiraz is from the rich red soils of the Hunter Valley. The 2022 vintage was cool with ample rainfall, ripe fruit was picked in early February. Deeply coloured with red fruits and spice followed by a seamless palate with well integrated oak.

In appearance, the wine is a deep and alluring hue, hinting at its concentration and depth. The rich red soils have imparted a remarkable intensity to the colour, inviting the eye to explore further.

On the nose, the wine unfolds with a delightful aromatic journey. Ripe red fruits dominate the forefront, their lusciousness a testament to the optimal ripening achieved despite the cooler weather. The abundance of rainfall has nurtured these fruits, enhancing their sweetness and aromatic complexity. Intertwined with the fruit notes is an enchanting medley of spices, lending a layer of intrigue and depth to the aromatic profile. This harmonious interplay of red fruits and spices creates an inviting anticipation of what's to come.

The palate, a seamless continuation of the aromatic experience, reflects the skilled craftsmanship that has gone into this wine. The ripened fruit flavours observed on the nose translate brilliantly onto the palate, where they unfold with a silky and velvety texture. The early February harvest decision has resulted in a wonderful balance between fruit ripeness and vibrant acidity, contributing to a refined and elegant structure.

One of the standout features of this Shiraz is its well-integrated oak presence. The winemaker has artfully used french oak barrels to enhance the wine's complexity without overpowering its inherent characteristics. The oak imparts subtle nuances of vanilla, and toasted spices, contributing to the wine's overall depth and sophistication.

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