Maverick Ahrens’ Creek Shiraz 2023, Barossa Valley

Maverick Ahrens’ Creek Shiraz 2023, Barossa Valley

From the Ahrens’ Creek vineyard, old Barossa dirt and a site that has always given Maverick a more savoury, detailed Shiraz. Deep crimson with a dense purple core. White pepper and graphite first, then a rustic shearing-shed note that hasn’t worked for twenty years: dry timber, wool, dust and warm iron. Forest floor, dried herb, a little leather and subtle earthy spice sit under dark cherry, blackberry and red plum.

The palate is medium-bodied and seductive. Plush red berry fruit, cranberry and sour cherry brightness, then darker plum and blackcurrant. Fine-grained tannin, fresh acid, a racy line that keeps it from sitting heavy. Subtle French oak for soft mocha and savoury complexity, fruit still in front. Long, powerful finish of blackberry, plum, pepper and spice. Racy and fresh. I want this in five years.

Vino Masters Score: 95/100 ★★★★★ A racy Ahrens’ Creek Shiraz with white pepper, graphite, shed-savour and a long spicy finish.