2019 Ashbrook Shiraz, Margaret River

Very perfumed and decidedly pretty. The oak is currently presenting as one of the key players here, however it brings with it a swag of dark chocolate, licorice and aniseed. This is really classy. The fruit is pure and consistent and dark in the mouth, paving a way across the tongue and lingering for an age.

94 points Special Value Erin Larkin winecompanion.com.au

Ashbrook Estate Shiraz from Margaret River is a quietly confident expression of the region’s cooler-climate take on this classic varietal. While Margaret River is often celebrated for its Cabernet and Chardonnay, this Shiraz proves it’s also a hidden gem for elegant, spice-driven reds. Produced entirely from estate-grown fruit and crafted by winemaker Catherine Edwards, the wine reflects the estate’s long-standing commitment to sustainable vineyard practices and minimal intervention winemaking.

The vines are some of the oldest in the region, planted in the 1970s on gravelly loam soils that encourage low yields and high concentration. Fermentation takes place in small open fermenters, followed by gentle basket pressing and maturation in a mix of new and seasoned French oak for around 18 months. The result is a Shiraz that’s more about finesse than brute force.

Aromas of dark cherry, blueberry, and black plum leap out, layered with notes of pepper, clove, and a whisper of dried herbs. There’s an elegant earthy undertone and just a touch of oak spice. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied with silky tannins and a cool-climate vibrancy. The fruit is pure and juicy, wrapped in savoury spice and fine structure, finishing long and balanced.

It’s incredibly food friendly—great with chargrilled lamb chops, Moroccan spiced eggplant, or even something richer like venison or duck. Understated, age-worthy, and always overdelivering for the price, this is one of Margaret River’s quiet achievers.