2021 McHenry Hohnen Hazel's Vineyard Zinfandel, Margaret River

While there is no new oak, thankfully, it is aged in used French and American hogsheads for 16 months, so there are some smoky, woodsy nuances. Zin’s natural tannins need no extra bolstering from oak as it is, they are firm and decisive yet tethered to the dense fruit and savoury flavours. It’s rich and ripe yet not OTT as lots of acidity keeps it buoyant.

92 points JL winecompanion.com.au

A lifted nose of red plums, raspberries and minted chocolate combine with sweet spice box and red liquorice. The medium bodied palate displays spiced cranberry confection, sour cherry and dried prunes driven by lovely acidity and silky, chocolate dust tannins. This fruit driven Zinfandel is guaranteed to please as a young wine but will improve with careful cellaring over the years.