2021 Scorpo Old Vine Shiraz, Mornington Peninsula

Made in a Northern Rhône winemaking tradition, this shiraz was matured in a selection of new (approximately 25%) and used (one, two and three year old) tight grained French barriques.

Deep ruby core, brightening at the rim. Fragrant aromas of blueberry, raspberry, vegetable stock and mixed ground peppercorns. Medium weight. Spices abound over red and blue fruits as it flows with lift and glide across the palate. There’s a sense of brightness and tension, acidity and sandy tannins carrying it well and the spices add liveliness across the senses. Great length and finely detailed at the finish. (Screwcap)

93 points Huon Hooke The Real Review

Tucked into the cooler reaches of the Mornington Peninsula, Scorpo Estate has built a quiet reputation for precision and detail, with winemaker Fergal Tynan guiding the wines with a steady, thoughtful hand. The Old Vine Shiraz comes from low yielding vines that have settled deeply into the site, drawing out a more concentrated and nuanced expression than you might expect from this maritime region.

Mornington Shiraz always plays a different tune to its Barossa cousins. Here, the cooling breezes off Bass Strait and the long growing season shape a style that leans into spice, savoury detail and finesse rather than sheer weight. The old vines add an extra layer, bringing depth without losing that regional brightness.

Colour sits in the deeper crimson spectrum, but it is the aromatics that pull you in first. Dark cherry and plum lead, followed by cracked pepper, clove and a gentle floral lift. There is a subtle earthiness underneath, a nod to the vineyard’s maturity, along with finely integrated oak that frames rather than dominates.

The palate is medium bodied yet concentrated, with dark fruit wrapped in silky tannins and a line of acidity that keeps everything moving. Spice builds through the mid palate, pepper and dried herbs lingering alongside a savoury edge. It feels composed and layered, more about detail and length than power, with the kind of balance that invites another glass.

This style shines with food that brings out its savoury side. Think slow roasted lamb with rosemary, charred beef with black pepper and olive oil, or even a rich lentil and mushroom stew where the earthy elements echo the wine’s complexity. It also handles spice well, making it a great partner for dishes with a bit of warmth rather than heat.

Cellar it for eight to twelve years if you like a more developed, savoury expression, though it drinks beautifully now with a bit of air.

There is a calm confidence here, the kind of wine that doesn’t need to shout. Perfect for a long dinner, good conversation, and something slow cooking in the background.