2022 Best's Bin 1 Shiraz, Great Western

A cooler climate shiraz that is distinctly Central Victorian, with vibrant dark fruit, spice, olive and floral perfume. The palate is driven by fine tannins and balanced acidity, giving focus and structure with a fruity, mineral-edged and herbal finish. Drink or hold.

95 points Ryan Montgomery for James Suckling, September 2026

Whole-berry fermentation with a small amount of whole bunches, 14 months' maturation in puncheons and large vats (5% new French oak). How good is this! A sub-$30, quality Great Western shiraz to warm the heart of even the most zealous 'anything but shiraz' drinker. Glistening in deep purple hues. Welcoming aromas of ripe black fruits and lively spice, Aussie bush and a pinch of crushed-pepper seasoning. The palate is supple, fine and even, holding bright throughout in black cherry, black fruits, plum, spice, anise and briar. Drink now or later; it will taste great. A ripper shiraz for the price. Drink to 2034.

94 points Special Value Jeni Port for Halliday Wine Companion, June 2026

As Best’s Wines celebrates its 160th birthday – no small feat in Australian wine – the Thomson family is marking the milestone with a wine that has been an Aussie favourite since its first vintage in 2000. No. 1 Shiraz, a fragrant and complex young Great Western Shiraz, is one heck of a feel good red wine. Glistening, deep purple in colour. Offers a youthful, bright, sweetly spiced, four-years-young Shiraz in a straight shooting style. No fancy winemaking bells and whistles, just lovely fruit in dark berries, black cherry, plum, spice, earth and briar laid out against fine tannins. Aromas embracing crushed pepper turn into an attractive background note on the palate, another layer of interest in this well-priced, popular Shiraz. Similarly, French oak – just 5% new – is a welcome addition, but the wine’s focus remains set on the effortless delivery of ripe fruit. Set to age well in the short to medium term. Happy Birthday, Best’s! Drink to 2034.

94 points Jeni Port for Wine Pilot, September 2026

Full ruby red colour. Very fragrant with mulberry, violet, white pepper and musk on the nose. A more medium-bodied style: mulberry fruit sits at the base with pepper and sweet floral notes over the top, all flowing with a lightness carried by acidity and silky tannins. Good length and it finishes with a flurry of pepper and musk. Drink to 2034.

92 points Stuart Knox for The Real Review, June 2026

Bin 1 Shiraz is made from grapes grown in Best’s own vineyards as well as those sourced trusted local growers.

It offers a classic expression of Australian Shiraz, showcasing the richness and depth the region is known for. Situated in the heart of Victoria, Great Western has a winemaking tradition dating back to the 1860s, and Best’s, a standout producer in the area, has crafted this Shiraz to highlight the unique terroir of the region—cooler than the typical Shiraz-producing areas of Australia, allowing for a more restrained, elegant style.

The fruit is handpicked at the peak of ripeness, and the winemaking process focuses on preserving the natural character of the Shiraz while enhancing its smooth texture and fruit-forward flavors. Aging in a mix of French and American oak barrels adds structure and complexity, without overpowering the wine’s fresh and vibrant profile.

This pairs wonderfully with hearty dishes. It’s excellent with grilled meats like steak or lamb, as well as dishes like barbecued ribs, beef stew, or even roasted vegetables. It also complements rich cheeses, such as aged cheddar or blue cheese, making it a fantastic all-rounder for a variety of occasions.

About this producer

Best's was established in 1866 at Concongella in Great Western, making it one of Australia's oldest continuously family-owned wineries. The Thomson family purchased the estate in 1920 and have been its custodians across five generations since. The Concongella vineyard holds some of Australia's oldest vines with Shiraz plantings dating to 1868, and Great Western's climate gives Best's wines a finesse and restraint that sets them apart from warmer Victorian regions.