If we’re honest, there’s not a single reason that we don’t love Sidewood. They’re far from being one-trick ponies (although everyone can find a favourite in their range). Whether it be sensational sparkling, succulent sauvignon blanc, perfect pinot noir, or shining chardonnay. This time, the spotlight is on the shiraz. Selected fruit, estate crafted, 100% french oak treatment through fermentation and 15 months maturation, before final barrel selection is undergone. No stone left unturned, no drop of wine slips by without quality assured. To simply say this overdelivers doesn’t do it justice: this excels in its own category and ones above.

This is a lovely, easy flowing shiraz from the Adelaide Hills that also packs a weighty punch - full of dark fruit and raspberry with sweet oak and spice flavours. It's a lovely example of what shiraz from "the Hills" can be - and all from a single block off a small family owned winery.

2023 PINOT NOIR THE WINE Seductive black cherry overlaid with exotic spices lead to a palate of supple fresh berries, bright acidity and lingering fine grained tannin. The very essence of youthful, vibrant Adelaide Hills Pinot Noir from carefully selected vineyards. VITICULTURE With enough sunny days to develop ripe, intense flavours 2023 was a cool and late vintage. The 2023 Epee Pinot Noir is made up of four clones - MV6,777,114 and 115 from vineyards at Gumeracha and Lobethal. More clones equals more complexity. WINEMAKING Harvested in the cool of night and early morning, pristine destemmed fruit is tipped directly into fermenters without crushing to give a high percentage of whole berries. The fermenters are gently pumped over twice a day to keep the skins wet and promote gentle tannin extraction. After pressing the wine is kept in stainless steel tanks prior to blending to preserve freshness and vibrancy.

BUSH Syrah is an elegant and alluring expression of contemporary Australian Shiraz. Bright floral aromatics of wild berries, pepper and earthy spice. Medium bodied and juicy with supple tannins.

Another very attractive release from the hugely dynamic Zonte's Footstep. An Adelaide Hills Shiraz with TWO Double Golds "...offering excellent drinking. 92pts” (Sam Kim, Wine Orbit). He adds that it is: “Sweetly fruited with complexity, the wine exhibits aromas of black and blueberry, star anise, floral notes, and hazelnut on the nose. The palate is equally satisfying with a plump mouthfeel backed by fleshy texture and supple tannins, offering excellent drinking. 92pts” (Sam Kim, Wine Orbit).