2021 Brokenwood Wade Block 2 Shiraz, McLaren Vale

The vineyard is in blue ribbon territory: Blewitt Springs, and planted with a selection massale ex old vines spread through McLaren Vale. It's one for your children/grandchildren to enjoy (once they are legally permitted to do so). Blackberry, licorice and – of course – dark chocolate all fight for inclusion on the luscious palate.

95 points James Halliday winecompanion.com.au

Sourced from the esteemed Wade Block 2 vineyard, located in the heart of McLaren Vale, this wine benefits from the region’s Mediterranean climate, where warm sunny days are tempered by cooling sea breezes from the nearby Gulf St Vincent. The vineyard's deep red loam soils over limestone contribute to excellent water retention and drainage, allowing the vines to produce intensely flavored fruit with depth, structure, and finesse. Brokenwood, a winery with a rich history and a reputation for crafting high-quality wines across Australia's top regions, showcases McLaren Vale’s distinctive terroir in this standout Shiraz.

On the palate, Brokenwood Wade Block 2 Shiraz offers a generous and complex array of dark fruit flavors, including ripe blackberry, black plum, and mulberry, layered with hints of dark chocolate, licorice, and a touch of cracked black pepper. The wine’s time spent in French oak barrels adds elegant notes of vanilla, cedar, and spice, enhancing its depth without overshadowing the vibrant fruit character. Silky tannins provide a plush yet structured mouthfeel, while a well-balanced acidity lends freshness and ensures a long, lingering finish with hints of mocha and earthy undertones. The wine's intensity and complexity reflect both the unique terroir of McLaren Vale and the meticulous winemaking approach employed by Brokenwood.

Brokenwood Wade Block 2 Shiraz is an excellent match for hearty dishes such as slow-cooked lamb shanks, grilled ribeye steak, or smoky barbecued meats. Its bold flavors and supple tannins also pair well with rich, savory dishes like beef bourguignon, aged cheddar, and charcuterie. Whether enjoyed in its youthful vibrancy or cellared for a decade to develop further complexity, this Shiraz delivers an outstanding drinking experience that embodies the essence of McLaren Vale.