2022 Eisenstone Koonunga SR807 Shiraz, Barossa Valley

Deep red-purple in the glass; intense black pepper and ironstone/graphite/broken rock aromas, the palate rich and deep, appealingly concentrated and bold, with abundant fine grained tannins and a long palate of graphite/earthy flavours. Oak is nicely balanced too. 28 Sep 2024 Drink 2024–2039

95 points Huon Hokke therealreview.com

Eisenstone Koonunga SR807 Shiraz from the Barossa Valley is a masterful expression of single-vineyard Shiraz, crafted with precision by boutique winemaker Stephen Cook. Eisenstone is renowned for its focus on showcasing the unique terroirs of Barossa Valley through premium Shiraz wines, and the Koonunga sub-region offers a distinct profile characterized by its red-brown loam soils and warm growing conditions. These attributes lend a bold yet balanced character to the SR807 Shiraz, making it a true representation of the vineyard’s potential.

The Koonunga Vineyard is carefully managed to produce low yields of intensely flavored Shiraz grapes. The warm days and cool nights of this sub-region encourage optimal ripening, preserving the balance between richness and vibrancy. Grapes are hand-harvested at the ideal moment to ensure their full potential.

In the winery, Stephen Cook employs meticulous winemaking techniques, fermenting the wine in small open-top fermenters to retain the purity of fruit and extract fine tannins. The wine is then aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, with a portion being new oak, to enhance complexity and structure without overwhelming the wine’s inherent character.

In the glass, Eisenstone Koonunga SR807 Shiraz reveals a deep garnet hue. Aromas of ripe blackberry, mulberry, and plum are complemented by hints of mocha, vanilla, and spice. The palate is rich and full-bodied, with concentrated dark fruit flavors, fine-grained tannins, and a touch of earthiness that reflects the vineyard’s terroir. The finish is long, smooth, and impeccably balanced, making this Shiraz an excellent candidate for cellaring or pairing with dishes like grilled steak, venison stew, or spiced eggplant.