Seppelt St Peters Shiraz 2022

The exceptional ratings (98 points from Ray Jordan, 97 from Huon Hooke) reflect the wine's masterful balance of power and restraint. The oak treatment using seasoned French barriques with only 24% new oak allows the Grampians fruit to shine without being overwhelmed. The inclusion of whole-bunch fermentation adds complexity and lift, creating what Ray Jordan called one of his all-time favourite Australian shiraz - a testament to Seppelt's winemaking precision.

This Shiraz has exceptional cellaring potential, drinking beautifully until 2049 - that's over 25 years from vintage. The wine's structure, tannin profile, and balanced acidity provide the backbone for extended ageing. While delicious now, patient collectors will be rewarded as the wine develops greater complexity, with the fruit flavours integrating further with the subtle oak and earthy elements over time.

The rich, full-bodied nature and earthy, spicy profile make this ideal for robust dishes. Think slow-cooked lamb with rosemary, grilled ribeye with cracked pepper, or game meats like venison. The wine's graphite and flinty notes from whole-bunch inclusion also complement mushroom-based dishes beautifully. The restrained oak won't compete with bold flavours, making it versatile for barbecued meats or rich stews.

The Grampians region in Victoria produces some of Australia's most distinctive Shiraz, known for combining power with elegance. The cool climate and unique terroir contribute to the wine's perfumed aromatics and mineral complexity - evident in this wine's graphite and flinty characteristics. Grampians Shiraz typically shows excellent structure and ageing potential, which explains why this wine can cellar confidently for decades while maintaining its fruit integrity.

The restrained oak program using seasoned French barriques frames rather than dominates the fruit, allowing the natural cherry and blackberry flavours to shine. The whole-bunch component adds a crucial flinty edge and textural complexity that elevates the wine beyond simple fruit-driven styles. This technique, combined with the old French vat usage, creates layers of flavour that unfold gradually - from the initial perfumed aromatics through to the long, composed finish.