Immensely complex and powerful, this wine is from classic old vine Shiraz from the Barossa. Dense, concentrated fruit characters of blackberry and ripe plum are knotted around delicious vanillin oak.
Barossa Valley Estate E & E Black Pepper Shiraz 2015
Penfolds RWT Shiraz is a big juicy Barossan Shiraz refined by the use of older French oak barrels. 1998 is considered to be one of the classic vintages of the modern age. Drinking wonderfully now but with many years still to come in its development, this is a great addition to any cellar.
One of the benchmarks of Barossa Shiraz, Peter Lehmann's Stonewell is a classic example of the rich concentrated old vine style. While bold on the palate, there is always an inherent complexity to the Stonewell that enables it to be compared with all of the great Australian wines produced today.
Just release from the cellar, RWT Barossa Valley Shiraz is entering its next phase of evolution—showing greater depth, harmony and refinement while retaining its signature power and precision. The once-vibrant nose has settled into a savoury complexity: cured meats, green olive, rosemary and subtle tar now merge with warm patisserie notes of cinnamon pastry, burnt sugar and toasted French oak. The palate remains medium-bodied but has broadened in texture, with the acidity softening and the chalky tannins now more integrated. The French oak influence is seamless, lending structure without overwhelming. Still showing vitality, but now unfolding the layered character that defines RWT’s long-lived style. A poised and elegant expression of single-region Barossa Shiraz, with many graceful years still ahead.
The initials RWT stand for Red Winemaking Trial, the name given to the project internally by Penfolds when developmental work began in 1995. No longer a trial, RWT Shiraz was launched in 2000. Its style is opulent and fleshy, made from fruit primarily selected for its aromatic qualities and plush texture. The result is a wine that helps to redefine Barossa shiraz at the highest quality level.Peak drinking: 2022 - 2050
Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier began its life after a career defining trip to the Côte-Rôtie in the mid 90s which set Tim Kirk on the journey towards producing one of Australia's best Shiraz. Determined to show that Australia could produce elegant but still powerful Shiraz, Tim's work has paid off with his flagship being acclaimed worldwide. In only 15 years, the Shiraz Viognier has attained 'Exceptional' status with Langton's, the highest possible.
While many seek out the Basket Press Shiraz, it would be a disservice to ignore this opulent and concentrated Barossa Cabernet from Rockford. The Rifle Range actually has a lovely elegant and structured bent to it, some real class. A core of blackcurrant that is complimented by savour touches that lift the wine to some extraordinary levels.
The 2021 Don Shiraz benefited from the 2020/2021 growing season's respite from previous hot and dry conditions, with abundant winter rain leading to healthy vineyards and slightly above-average crop sets. Despite a dry summer, early canopy growth sustained the fruit, which developed flavor and ripeness early, allowing for harvest with lower sugar and higher natural acidity. The fruit arrived in perfect condition, and the resulting wines from this vintage are noted for their freshness, depth, and personality, marking 2021 as a standout year. Vinification included a natural soak followed by a week of natural fermentation, with careful extraction methods employed throughout. Post-fermentation, the wine was basket-pressed and underwent malolactic fermentation in oak. The 2021 Don Shiraz opens with a quiet assertiveness, revealing earthy and spicy notes indicative of a cooler harvest. As it unwinds, powerful aromas of red berries, leather, and dark chocolate emerge. The palate is refined and balanced, with assertive tannins, crisp acidity, and restrained opulence. The true depth and complexity of this vintage will unfold over time, promising a remarkable wine experience. Alc. 14.8%