2021 Castelli Estate Shiraz, Frankland River

Castelli Estate Shiraz from Frankland River is a beautifully structured, cool climate expression that combines Western Australian elegance with real depth of flavour. Frankland River sits inland and at altitude, where chilly nights and ocean-cooled winds slow ripening and help Shiraz retain its spice, brightness and fine tannins. Castelli work closely with growers across this prized region, hand harvesting fruit at ideal ripeness and fermenting in small batches before maturing the wine in a selection of French oak to build savoury complexity while keeping the fruit pure and vibrant.

Dark cherry, blackberry and mulberry form the aromatic core, lifted by violets, black pepper and a hint of blueberry. As the wine opens, subtle layers of cocoa nib, smoked tea, bay leaf and ironstone earthiness reveal the character of Frankland River’s gravelly soils. Oak seasoning is gentle, adding just a touch of clove and cedar polish.

The palate is medium to full bodied with a sleek but powerful line of tannin that gives shape without heaviness. Juicy black fruit glides through savoury spice, olive tapenade and graphite minerality, guided by lively natural acidity that keeps the wine fresh and energetic. The finish lingers long with berry richness, pepper and a cool, stony echo. It will develop beautifully over the next six to ten years, gaining gamey and truffle like nuances as the structure loosens.

A terrific match for chargrilled lamb cutlets, pepper steak, roasted mushrooms, venison ragu, smoky eggplant dishes and aged cheddar. It is a wine that shows just how compelling modern Frankland River Shiraz has become: poised, spicy and deeply rooted in place.