2021 Pirathon Shiraz, Barossa Valley

Silver Barossa Wine Show 2022

Pirathon draws fruit for the Silver Label from five north-western Barossa sub-regions, Moppa, Belvidere, Koonunga, Ebenezer and Light Pass. The vineyards sit at 300-350 metres elevation and are farmed by long-term family growers who have supplied Pirathon since the label's early years.

The 2021 season was cool and wet with above-average rainfall, which slowed the vintage and gave the fruit extra development time before a warm, dry run into harvest. Fermented in open top vessels with hand pump-overs, pressed after 7-12 days on skins, then 18 months in a combination of new and seasoned American, French and Hungarian oak before bottling without fining. A traditional approach that suits the style.

Deep ruby, the nose shows blackberry, dark cherry and plum with mocha, vanilla and a hint of spice from the mixed oak maturation. The palate is full-bodied and generous with ripe, plush tannins, good concentration and a warm, satisfying finish. Reliably bold north-western Barossa character at a sensible price.

Hearty BBQ fare would sit well here, or just cuddle up under a blanket with a glass of this in the cooler months.