Shiraz 2017 - Black Market Deal #42979

The 2017 vintage benefited from comparably cooler growing conditions, which allowed fruit from the warmer northern Barossa vineyards to hang longer on the vines. This extended hang time resulted in greater depth of flavour concentration in each grape, creating wines with enhanced complexity and intensity. The cooler conditions also helped preserve natural acidity while allowing full phenolic ripeness to develop.

The wine underwent twice-daily pump-overs during fermentation, a technique that maximises colour and tannin extraction from the grape skins. After fermentation, it was aged for 17 months in mostly new French and American oak barrels, which contributed cedar notes and helped integrate the wine's powerful fruit flavours. This combination of intensive extraction and extended oak maturation creates the wine's signature silky smooth finish.

This rich, full-bodied Shiraz pairs beautifully with robust red meats like grilled lamb, beef steaks, or slow-cooked beef brisket. The wine's complex notes of tobacco leaf, mocha, and cedar complement char-grilled flavours, while its ripe cherry and fig characteristics work well with game meats and aged cheeses. The wine's structure and tannins can also handle spicy barbecue dishes and rich, tomato-based pasta sauces.

With 96 points from James Halliday and 94 points from Winestate, this Shiraz sits in the exceptional quality tier that represents less than 5% of wines reviewed. James Halliday's 96-point rating indicates a wine of outstanding quality with no discernible flaws, while Winestate's 94 points confirms its status as a premium example. These scores suggest the wine offers exceptional value and drinking pleasure both now and with cellaring.

Given its full-bodied structure, high-quality oak treatment, and exceptional vintage conditions, this Shiraz has excellent cellaring potential of 10-15 years from vintage. The wine's firm tannins and concentrated fruit will continue to integrate and develop secondary characteristics like leather, earth, and spice complexity. While drinking beautifully now, those who cellar it will be rewarded with increased harmony and the emergence of more nuanced tertiary flavours.