2021 Domenica Shiraz, Beechworth

Fine shiraz in these parts is almost an inevitability given diurnal shifts, granite soils and largely, impressive viticulture. Great terroir. Lifted aromas of mace, violets, cloves, black olives, blueberries and pepper grind. A marinade of steak in the mix. This is a stunning shiraz, mid-weighted, nicely furled and offering real propulsion across the mouth, given the freshness and pliant tannic fiber. Exceptional wine. Drink or hold.

96 points Ned Goodwin MW jamessuckling.com

Deep-ish red-purple colour with a sweetly floral, peppery/spicy, vegetable and sweetly ripe berry-fruit bouquet; the wine is full bodied and rich but also elegant, with smooth supple texture, and a fleshy mouth-feel that is quite decadent. Very stylish and aromatic, with great drinkability Is there some viognier in this? 15 FEB 2024’ 

96 points Huon Hooke therealreview.com

Domenica sits 460m above sea level atop the granite ridge sweeping away to the south west of Beechworth. Shiraz made with an eye firmly on the style of the Northern Rhone wines. 

Fermented separately in small batches, it present wonderful blending options. Whole bunch inclusion is dependant upon the season, up to around 25% of the batch. The remainder is lightly crushed, destemmed, then taken to an open topped concrete tank, where it usually sits for a few days prior to the commencement of fermentation. This takes about two weeks, with hand plunging the extraction technique employed. Taste and seasonal conditions will determine whether any post fermentation maceration is undertaken, then the wine is basket pressed, blended, and taken to barrel for maturation for around 21 months. The finest French barriques are used, around 25% new.  

Blue fruit, blackcurrant, truffles and some sweet cinnamon oak and whole bunch spice. Medium-bodied, plush and supple, lots of sweet dark fruit, some dry tannin. Pulls savoury and spicy on a finish of good length, with a plum aftertaste.