Graveyard Vineyard is the jewel in the Brokenwood crown, responsible for the company's flagship wines. The vineyard was planted with Shiraz vines in 1970 - extremely heavy clay soils, yields are low, but fruit flavour is intense through employment of meticulous vinification techniques. Strong lifted aromas of sweet earth and dark cherry greet the olfactory senses. Oak features, but will soften and integrate given some patience. Initial flavours of dark chocolate and ripe plums are beautifully lashed to ripe tannins lending an edge of cedar.

Deep purple with violet hues, this flagship wine features boysenberry, hazelnut and chocolate, nutty spices along with hints of coconut and Cuban cigar. Block 6 Shiraz speaks of balance, depth with multiple layers of flavor and extraordinary structure. It has a full, complex midpalate, leading to a silky, warm, lingering finish, supported by juicy ripe velvety tannins. Time and careful cellaring will ensure perfect integration is complete.

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%

Although this wine is plush, dense and rich, it possesses a compelling percussion and balance. Right up there with Grange and Hill Of Grace as one of Australia's best Shiraz, and from one of the greatest vintages too!