Bannockburn Shiraz 2023

Cool-climate spice, savoury complexity and old-vine concentration define the Bannockburn Shiraz 2023, a distinctive estate-grown expression from Victoria’s Geelong region. Shiraz has played an integral role at Bannockburn Vineyards since the estate’s earliest plantings were established in 1974. The 2023 release combines fruit from the Range vineyard, planted in 1974, the Winery Block, planted in 1990 and 1996, and the densely planted De La Roche vineyard, established in 2007. Its clonal composition includes PT23, R6WV28 and material known as Best’s Old Block, bringing together vines of different ages, spacings and planting densities. The cool and light-cropping 2023 season produced a refined, medium-bodied wine with excellent fruit concentration, freshness and savoury definition.

Each vineyard parcel was handpicked and fermented separately with indigenous yeast, allowing the character of the individual blocks to remain clearly expressed. Approximately 10% whole bunches were incorporated into the final blend, including a portion that underwent carbonic maceration to enhance fragrance, energy and fruit purity. After pressing, the wine was transferred to French oak hogsheads and puncheons, of which approximately 10% were new. It remained undisturbed in barrel for 10 months before being transferred to 1,200-litre seasoned oak vats for an additional six months of maturation. The resulting wine combines blueberry, red cherry and darker fruit with black pepper, clove, dried herbs, olive and subtle charcuterie notes. Fine oak and a gravelly mineral character add further complexity without overwhelming the fruit. The palate is succulent yet composed, with vibrant acidity and long, elegant tannins supporting its savoury core. Polished, focused and quietly powerful, the Bannockburn Shiraz 2023 offers immediate pleasure while possessing the structure to develop gracefully in bottle.