Orlando Lawson's Shiraz 2016

This Orlando Lawson's Shiraz showcases the distinctive terroir of Padthaway with its signature choc-mint character that runs throughout the wine. The combination of liquorice and eucalypt notes reflects the unique Australian landscape, while the mocha and cedar oak integration demonstrates masterful winemaking. At 95 points from Bob Campbell MW, it represents exceptional quality that balances power with elegance, making it a standout example of premium Australian Shiraz.

The 2016 vintage brings remarkable freshness evident in the dark crimson colour with purple flickers, indicating optimal ripening conditions. This vintage has allowed the wine to develop complex layers while maintaining structural integrity through firm yet approachable tannins. The age has integrated the oak beautifully, creating harmony between the rich black fruit and the underlying earthy, spicy complexity that gives this wine its brooding character.

The wine's plush, powerful palate and rich black fruit flavours make it ideal for robust dishes like grilled lamb with rosemary, aged beef steaks, or game meats. The liquorice and eucalypt notes complement Mediterranean herbs, while the choc-mint finish pairs beautifully with dark chocolate desserts. The structural tannins can handle rich, fatty foods, making it perfect for slow-cooked braises or mature hard cheeses.

Padthaway's cool climate and terra rossa soils over limestone create ideal conditions for producing Shiraz with both power and finesse. This region is renowned for wines that express distinctive eucalypt and mint characteristics, which shine through in this bottling's signature choc-mint profile. The vineyard's terroir contributes to the wine's ability to balance richness with underlying earthiness, creating the complex, layered structure that defines quality Padthaway Shiraz.

Serve this full-bodied Shiraz at 16-18°C to allow its complex aromatics and flavours to fully express themselves. Decanting for 30-60 minutes will help soften the firm tannins and enhance the wine's brooding earth and spice characteristics. Store bottles on their side in a cool, dark place - this wine has excellent ageing potential and will continue developing complexity over the next 5-8 years, with the choc-mint character evolving beautifully.