2021 Sons Of Eden Zephyrus Shiraz, Barossa & Eden Valley

Stunningly beautiful, the wine shows blackberry, floral, warm spice and toasty oak characters with a hint of cocoa. It’s richly flavoursome in the mouth offering terrific fruit power and velvety mouthfeel, combined with refreshing acidity and polished tannins, finishing splendidly long and sumptuous. At its best: 2026 to 2039.

97 points Sam Kim wineorbit.co.nz

This is very good, for those after quality Barossa. 2021, an unimpeachable vintage by virtue of its cooler mien, refined tannins and palpable natural degrees of freshness. While the winemaking hand is evident, with smoky barrel fermentation notes, mocha oak and a clutch of floral reduction, the flowing fruit is pure and impressive. The structural attributes are well applied, integrated and serving to compress the inherent largesse of Barossa into a nourishing, drinkable whole. A class act. Drinkable now, but best after 2027. Screw cap.

95 points Ned Goodwin MW jamessuckling.com

The 2021 Zephyrus Shiraz is a brilliant wine. Luscious tannins frame a bounty of black and purple fruit in the mouth, peppering it with coal dust/graphite/black tea and black olive tapenade. It's a really good, structural, balanced, spicy, exciting Shiraz. It is polished but earthy, too, really well handled. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

95 points Erin Larkin robertparker.com

 Sons of Eden Zephyrus Shiraz, crafted from both the Barossa Valley and Eden Valley, is a remarkable wine that beautifully showcases the diversity of these two renowned regions in South Australia. The Barossa Valley, known for its rich, full-bodied Shiraz, and the cooler Eden Valley, which provides freshness and finesse, come together in this blend to create a wine that is both powerful and elegant. Sons of Eden, a boutique winery focused on producing wines of distinction, has expertly blended fruit from these regions to craft a Shiraz that is both complex and approachable.

The fruit for the Zephyrus Shiraz is carefully sourced from select vineyards in the Barossa Valley and Eden Valley, where the difference in climate between the two regions adds layers of complexity to the wine. The warmer Barossa Valley provides ripe, dark fruit flavors, while the cooler Eden Valley contributes acidity and fresh, herbal notes that balance the wine’s richness. The winemaking process at Sons of Eden is focused on minimal intervention, allowing the natural characteristics of the fruit and terroir to shine through. The wine is aged in French oak barrels, which adds subtle complexity and depth while allowing the fruit-driven character of the Shiraz to remain the focus.

In the glass, Sons of Eden Zephyrus Shiraz has a deep, dark ruby color, reflecting its intensity and depth. The nose is rich and inviting, with aromas of dark fruits such as blackberry, plum, and black cherry, complemented by spicy notes of black pepper, clove, and a hint of licorice. There is also a touch of chocolate and toasted oak from the barrel aging, which adds complexity to the bouquet.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with smooth, velvety tannins and a rich, round mouthfeel. The dark fruit flavors are bold and concentrated, with blackberry, plum, and black cherry standing out, while the spice and oak influence add layers of complexity. The wine’s acidity, drawn from the Eden Valley component, provides balance and structure, ensuring that the wine remains fresh and vibrant. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering dark fruit and spice notes that leave a lasting impression.

Sons of Eden Zephyrus Shiraz is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of hearty dishes. Its bold fruit and smooth tannins make it an excellent match for grilled meats, such as steak, lamb, or venison, as well as rich, flavorful dishes like slow-cooked beef stew or braised short ribs. It also pairs wonderfully with mature cheeses, such as cheddar or blue cheese, making it a perfect choice for a sophisticated cheese board. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a meal, this Shiraz is a bold and elegant expression of the Barossa and Eden Valleys.