Coriole Estate Shiraz 2023

100% estate-grown Shiraz off McLaren Vale vines averaging 50 years old, fermented in open tanks, hand plunged and matured in French oak hogsheads. The nose is deep and savoury — blackberry, violet, black tea, dried sage and an earthy ferrous edge — while the full-bodied palate runs pepper, cherry, blackberry, plum and cacao over lush tannins and balanced acidity. The cooler 2023 season keeps it graceful rather than heavy, and it will repay a few years in the cellar.

The fruit comes from Coriole's own blocks spread across McLaren Vale, Blewitt Springs, Willunga and McLaren Flat. The vineyards are farmed organically with no synthetic inputs. Compost made from winery leftovers and animal manure goes back onto the rows, and cover crops and legumes build soil carbon.

The 2023 season was a cool, wet La Niña year. Harvest started late and yields came in naturally moderate, so the fruit was clean and ripe with long flavour. That is where the wine's grace comes from in a region better known for weight.

Hugh and Molly Lloyd bought the property in 1968, and their son Mark still runs it. The homestead and barn go back to around 1860. Drink it now with slow-cooked lamb, grilled meats or roasted vegetables, or tuck it away for a few years.