The Opera Block at Ballandean Estate is just behind the winery and is named as such after the regular Opera in the Vineyards concerts were held on an adjacent stage. Sadly, this event is no more but the Shiraz and Chardonnay from these vines keep belting out the tunes.
This is a beautiful expression of cool-climate Shiraz. Medium-bodied, it opens with a fragrant dusting of black pepper spice before rolling into notes of barbecued steak, gentle char and dark plum fruit. Supple blackberries bring lift and generosity to the palate, balancing the wine’s more savoury feels. There’s a firmish tension on entry that initially keeps things tightly wound, but a little time in the glass reveals a more relaxed and expressive side. The fruit broadens, the spice settles and the wine finds its groove. What I particularly like is the acidity. It brings life and energy, keeping everything vibrant and adding an extra dimension to the finish. Better still, it suggests this will reward further bottle age. Elegant and savoury, this is a thoroughly enjoyable Shiraz.
93/100
Region: Granite Belt
