2013 Smidge Magic Dirt Stonewell Shiraz, Barossa Valley

Magic Dirt has been inspired by the various sub regions’ terroir of South Australia’s Barossa Valley. After several years of trials, we originally chose three subregions that show profound differences, but still reflect the true qualities of great Barossa Valley Shiraz. All vineyards selected are trellised with a single cordon, single catch wire, and planted with the clone 1654. 

In 2012 the range was extended with a wine from a vineyard on Mengler’s Hill in Eden Valley and in 2013 a fifth wine was included from Willunga in McLaren Vale. The philosophy has remained the same…the barrel selected truly showcases the vineyard it is from although not every subregion is selected every year if the true representation is not seen.

This is particularly complex, with rich blackberry and plum fruit, sufficient to carry both the new oak and the alcohol without complaint. The ripe, powerful and balanced tannins are at one with the fruit.

95 points James Halliday winecompanion.com.au