Very bright purple-red colour in the glass; brilliantly fresh and lively spice and cherry aromas, pepper, walnut and bitumen background notes and the fruit is very much in the spotlight—thanks to subtle use of oak. Terrific intensity and energy on the medium-full bodied palate: bright and bouncy, with balanced fine-grained tannins and harmonious acidity leading to an impression of seamlessness. An outstanding shiraz and a modern beacon for this variety in Clare. Drink 2025–2043

A thread of pepper through ripe cherry, raspberry, wild strawberry, a weave of dried herb and a sense of game meat, too. It’s succulent, supple, the spice a tease through beautiful, pure, bright yet deep fruit character. A touch of porty wine richness and sweetness seems to step through the finish, perhaps a quibble. But geez, this is fantastic, honest and delicious – repping Clare and shiraz. A superb expression here – savoury, sweet, fine, bold, bright. All the joy.

I’ve long admired Stephanie Toole’s classic and ageworthy approach to Clare Shiraz, and cool seasons like 2023 play beautifully to her style. There’s a vibrant lift to black and red cherry fruits, a finesse to fine-ground tannins and an energy and brightness like only natural acidity can deliver.