2022 Head Wines Red Shiraz, Eden Valley

Very bright purple-red colour, youthful and fresh, the bouquet is reserved and pleasant, with earthy, woodsy and savoury nuances, a definite hint of warm eucalypt forest floor. A bold, straightforward and slightly dumb wine at this point in time, with abundant firm tannins adding grip and structure to the finish. It would reward a bit of cellar time. A solid, full-bodied shiraz that will age well. Good value. 01 Sep 2024 Drink 2024–2035

89 points Huon Hooke therealreview.com

Head Wines Red Shiraz from Eden Valley is a beautifully balanced, cool-climate expression of Shiraz that brings together purity, elegance, and regional character in a distinctly modern Barossa style. Crafted by Alex Head, one of the Barossa’s most thoughtful winemakers, this wine reflects his love of the northern Rhône—perfumed, savoury, and structured, with a real sense of place.

Sourced from elevated vineyard sites in the Eden Valley, the fruit benefits from cooler temperatures and longer ripening, which helps retain acidity and aromatics while building fine, layered tannins. The soils here are a mix of sandy loams and ancient granites, contributing minerality and finesse to the final wine.

Alex Head’s approach in the winery is minimal and hands-off. Fermentation is done with a portion of whole bunches to enhance spice and complexity, and the wine is aged in older French oak barrels to preserve freshness and vineyard character rather than impose oak flavour.

In the glass, it opens with aromas of wild blackberry, blueberry, cracked pepper, and fresh herbs, with underlying notes of graphite and violets. The palate is medium bodied and textural, with juicy dark fruit, bright acidity, and a long, savoury finish. It’s a wine that walks the line between power and restraint beautifully.

This is Shiraz with energy and focus—perfect with roast duck, grilled lamb, or smoky eggplant dishes.