2022 Thomas Wines Sweetwater Shiraz, Hunter Valley

One is immediately drawn to this wine by the extraordinary aroma that leaps from the glass. Its dried cherry, cacao nib, and Moroccan spice notes are alluring and mysterious. It has both richness and clarity, achieved through attentive viticulture and skilful winemaking. Fragrance, richness and brightness are the hallmarks of this impressive, moreish wine.

94 points Toni Paterson winecompanion.com.au

The Thomas Wines Sweetwater Shiraz from Hunter Valley is a stunning single-vineyard wine that captures the essence of this iconic Australian region. Renowned for its balance of elegance and power, this Shiraz reflects both the unique terroir of the Sweetwater Vineyard and the meticulous craftsmanship of Andrew Thomas, a winemaker celebrated for his dedication to site-specific expressions of Shiraz.

On the nose, the wine opens with vibrant aromas of blackberries, plums, and dark cherries, intertwined with notes of black pepper, licorice, and hints of violet. Subtle layers of cedar, spice, and earthiness from oak aging add depth and complexity.

The palate is medium to full-bodied, with fine-grained tannins and a vibrant acidity providing structure and finesse. Flavors of ripe dark fruits are complemented by savory undertones of black olive, dried herbs, and a touch of smoky oak. The finish is long, elegant, and seamless, showcasing the wine’s balance and purity.

Sourced exclusively from the Sweetwater Vineyard in the Hunter Valley’s western reaches, the grapes benefit from the region’s warm days and cool nights, which contribute to the wine’s ripe fruit character and refined structure. Traditional winemaking techniques, including fermentation in small open fermenters and maturation in French oak barrels, enhance the wine’s texture and complexity while preserving its vibrant varietal expression.

This Shiraz pairs beautifully with dishes such as grilled lamb, beef tenderloin, or slow-cooked osso buco. It also complements rich vegetarian dishes like mushroom stroganoff or eggplant parmigiana. While approachable now, the Thomas Wines Sweetwater Shiraz has the structure to age gracefully for 10–15 years, developing additional layers of complexity over time.