SummaryIn the tradition of Black Shiraz this wine has all the hallmarks of classic Barossa style, full flavoured, long living wines that are enjoyable on release. While a complex powerful wine it is also approachable and rather moreish; a perfect combination of premium grapes, sophisticated winemaking and decades of blending experience.
Region: Barossa | State: SA | Country: Australia
The appearance is opaque, deep crimson with ruby edges. The solid colour gives suggestion to its bodyweight and texture while the long alcohol legs coating the side of the glass indicate its intensity.
First impressions are powerful ripe fruit; mulberry, cherries and dark plums. As the wine opens up in glass, it reveals more complex layers of black olives and peppery spice. There are hints of medicinal herbs and smoky, charred oak barrels adding a savoury edge. The initial intensity of the sweet alcohol esters gently fade, leaving rich aromas of roast coffee and dark chocolate.
Cherries and plums roll onto the early palate with a spiciness akin to brandy-soaked fruit. The middle is typical Barossa, rich and robust, packed with flavour. The tannins are smooth and mellow, consistent with characteristics of vintage 2017. Oak maturation has allowed the fruit to integrate without dominating the flavours, bringing a velvety soft edge to the mouthfeel. The overall palate has intensity with an approachable demeaner.
This 2017 expression of Black Shiraz has the classic Barossa elements of power and weight, without aggression. It will match well with rare roast beef salad, barbequed loin lamb chops drizzled with olive oil or pulled pork and caramelized onions.
Previous vintages of the Grand Barossa Black Shiraz are proving to be timeless, gaining richness and further complexity with cellar maturation. This wine has the hallmarks to continue in the same tradition. 2017 is already approachable and drinking superbly. It retains the vitality of youth whilst starting to deliver the complexity of the winemaker’s art. It will provide enjoyable drinking for over a decade. Allow the bottle to breath at room temperature to bring out the best.