2012 Seppelt Mount Ida Shiraz, Heathcote

From a pioneering dry-grown vineyard planted in the Heathcote region in '75. It's been given a good smack of quality French oak. It sets the style but also increases the wine's satiny smoothness. The crux is where oak meets fruit, and here's where the wine shines. A flood of red licorice, plum, clove and eucalypt oozes into smoky vanilla. It's a big oak-rich style but it will mature very well.

94 points Campbell Mattinson winecompanion.com.au

Seppelt Mount Ida Shiraz is one of Australia’s great single vineyard wines, a benchmark expression of Heathcote and a quiet overachiever in the Seppelt portfolio. Mount Ida sits high above the surrounding plains, where ancient Cambrian soils rich in ironstone and green basalt give Shiraz its unmistakable structure, savoury depth and mineral authority. This is a site that speaks loudly, even when handled with restraint.

The Mount Ida vineyard has long been recognised as one of Victoria’s most important Shiraz sites. Planted in the 1960s, it produces small berries with thick skins and intense flavour, yet always carries a sense of balance thanks to elevation and cooling influences. Seppelt’s approach here is respectful and understated, allowing the vineyard to lead. Fermentation is traditional, oak is carefully judged, and time is given for the wine to settle into itself rather than be rushed to market.

In the glass, Mount Ida Shiraz delivers depth without excess. Dark plum, blackberry and mulberry form the core, layered with cracked pepper, dried herbs and savoury spice. There is a distinct ironstone and graphite note that anchors the fruit and gives the wine its Heathcote signature. The palate is powerful yet composed, with firm, fine tannins, fresh acidity and a long, controlled finish that unfolds slowly rather than charging ahead.

This is a Shiraz that thrives with food. Grilled beef, lamb, game or richly flavoured vegetable dishes bring out its savoury side beautifully. It is also a natural candidate for the cellar, developing further complexity over many years and rewarding patience with layers of earth, spice and detail.

Seppelt Mount Ida Shiraz is a reminder that great Australian Shiraz does not need to shout. When site, history and thoughtful winemaking align, the result is something quietly compelling and deeply satisfying.