TASTING NOTES FOR Whistler Estate Shiraz Barossa Valley South Australia 2023

🍷 Appearance
Deep ruby to crimson with youthful purple hues. Bright and vibrant in the glass, showing excellent depth without the heavy opacity sometimes associated with Barossa Shiraz.

👃 Aromas
Expressive and inviting, with blackberry, dark cherry and ripe plum complemented by liquorice, cracked black pepper and fragrant spice. Subtle black olive, dark chocolate and savoury notes add complexity.

👅 Palate
Medium to full-bodied with juicy blackberry and dark cherry fruit supported by black olive, liquorice and dark chocolate. Fresh acidity provides lift and energy, while peppery spice and savoury characters give the wine excellent definition.

🍈 Texture & Finish
Fine, grainy tannins provide structure while maintaining an appealing suppleness through the palate. The finish is long and savoury, with lingering dark fruit, spice and a distinctive touch of orange peel.

🍇 Overall Style
A contemporary expression of Barossa Valley Shiraz that combines generous dark fruit with freshness, savoury complexity and restraint. The cooler 2023 vintage contributes an attractive freshness and elegance, making this more refined than an overtly rich or heavily extracted Barossa style.

🍽️ Food Pairing
Perfect with barbecued lamb, grilled steak, slow-roasted beef, gourmet sausages, wood-fired pizza, mushroom dishes and mature cheddar.

⭐ BBD Verdict
A beautifully balanced Barossa Shiraz with plenty of regional character but without excessive weight. Blackberry, cherry, liquorice and dark chocolate meet peppery spice, savoury complexity and fine tannins. Generous, fresh and highly drinkable, with excellent length and enough structure to reward further cellaring.

Cheers
Peter Turnbull
Better Buy The Dozen 🍷