In a perfect world everything fits into its place. But sometimes, just sometimes, you find that the square peg/ round hole syndrome is alive and well. Elenay Shiraz isn’t an accident, it’s just that a few barrels that were designated to be the famous Kiss Shiraz didn’t quite make the cut, and a few barrels of Sweetwater vineyard Shiraz likewise just didn’t quite match that wine’s style.

Startling purple colour in the glass, glorious in its Hunter Valley hues. Aromas sway from dark plum to mocha and back to savoury, earthy stuff and the palate is medium- bodied and exceptionally long. Tannins are subtle but dusty, and there’s a richness but a briary character hand in hand. It’s a pretty wine in a way, but there’s underlying grunt too.

1 Trophy. 2 Gold Medals.
96 points - James Halliday