2022 Peter Lehmann 8 Songs Shiraz, Barossa Valley

A well-rounded, polished and creamy shiraz with dark plums, sweet spices and cedar, following through to a medium body with well-integrated tannins. Refined texture, luscious fruit and plenty of sweet spices. Relaxed finish. Drink or hold.

92 points James Suckling, March 2024

Peter Lehmann had a deep love of the arts, and Eight Songs for a Mad King — a work by composer Peter Maxwell Davies — was among his favourites. He created this wine to show a softer, more elegant side of Barossa Shiraz.

This is a regional Barossa blend with fruit from a handful of the winery's loyal long-standing growers across Bethany, Light Pass, Nuriootpa and Ebenezer. Fermented on skins for up to two weeks, then 18 months in French oak with 40% new. Barrels tasted, selected based on the style sought for the Eight Songs, and blended for the best expression of the style in a vintage.

The result is a generous and polished wine without the weight and density of the Stonewell sibling. Deep crimson, the nose shows dark plum, blueberry and blackcurrant with sweet spice, cedar and a thread of mocha. The palate is medium to full-bodied with luscious fruit, creamy texture, well-integrated tannins and a long, composed finish.

Approachable now and will continue to develop. Drink with slow-roasted lamb or beef, or something with similar robust flavours.