The new flagship for Schwarz Wine Co, this Gratitude Shiraz is a nod of respect from Jason Schwarz to his parents for not uprooting their Barossa vineyards during the government vine pull scheme in the 1980s. The very best of Shiraz from the vintage, it spent two years in French oak.
There is plenty to unpack here and it showed its best self with plenty of air under its wings. A wine best kept for the long term, that time in oak certainly plays its part.
Dark plums, blackberries, Christmas cake fruit and licorice all shoulder their way forward early. Dark chocolate and mocha build some momentum with cedar and sandalwood not far from the action. Silky, rich and with plenty of depth, it is wrapped up into a neat parcel by baking spices that run long and hum on a persistent and considered finish. A long term keeper that won't disappoint.
Drink to ten years+
95/100
Region: Barossa