2021 Parker Estate Kidman Block Shiraz, Coonawarra

Don’t you love a great back label? It can fill the gaps that front labels can’t. Parker Coonawarra Estate labels are among the best. I can tell you, amongst a number of interesting facts, that the 2021 Kidman Block shiraz hails from the north of the region and, in particular, Blocks 1 and 2 of the Kidman Vineyard planted in 1969 on terra rossa over limestone soils. As I open the bottle, I am expecting old vine density of flavour and the terra rossa x factor. They both deliver in the glass. Kidman boasts a natural balance and style. Dressed in purple hues, it’s all fresh raspberry, plum, cherry fruited in league with some enticing thyme and sage notes. Youthful, yes, but you sense a depth that will grow with time. That aromatic introduction moves on to a palate with more polish, more poise. Smooth tannins lead the assembly of flavours and spice with the rise of some snappy blueberry fruits - delicious and inviting – laying the groundwork. Refined, confident oak integration is central to the future of this wine. It’s already beautifully in balance, a good starting point for further time in bottle, if you so wish. Me? I’m having it tonight with Greek lamb. 

95 points Jeni Port winepilot.com.au

This really flexes its muscles. Strong currant-driven fruit (black and red) comes lashed with caramel, cedar, vanilla and woodsmoke, though it's the thick ropes of tannin that amps up the general feeling of seriousness. This isn't a wine to mess with. It has balance, herb notes, ripe fruit and, most importantly, a noteworthy extra kick of flavour through the finish.

96 points Special Value✭ Campbell Mattinson winecompanion.com.au

The Kidman family, a dynasty unto themselves, have a beautiful vineyard on the northern end of the Terra Rossa strip and block 1 and 2 is home to beautiful, 50-year-old, dry grown vines that yield as low as 3 tonne per hectare. So distinctive is the fruit, we wanted to showcase it in all its purity, with the Kidman Block Single Site Shiraz.