2022 Tomfoolery Artful Dodger Shiraz, Barossa Valley

Tomfoolery Artful Dodger Shiraz from the Barossa Valley is a bold yet beautifully balanced red that captures the region’s rich fruit and the label’s playful, hands-on winemaking philosophy. Crafted by winemaker Ben Chipman, it celebrates the essence of Barossa Shiraz — plush, spicy and generous — while maintaining freshness and drinkability that make it instantly appealing. The name “Artful Dodger” hints at the wine’s cheeky personality: approachable, vibrant and full of charm.

The fruit is sourced from select vineyards across the Barossa Valley, including older dry-grown sites on deep red-brown loam over clay. These soils, coupled with the valley’s warm days and cool evenings, yield Shiraz grapes of depth and concentration. Fermentation takes place in open fermenters with wild yeasts and gentle hand plunging before the wine is matured in a mix of seasoned French and American oak barrels for around 12 months. The approach is low intervention, designed to let the fruit and site speak clearly.

In the glass it shows a deep crimson colour with purple hues. The aroma bursts with blackberry, plum and raspberry, supported by notes of pepper, clove, vanilla and cocoa. The palate is full bodied yet smooth, offering dark fruit richness balanced by supple tannins and lively acidity. Layers of spice and mocha unfold across a long, velvety finish that captures both generosity and finesse.

It’s a natural match for grilled steak, slow-cooked lamb, barbecue dishes or hearty pastas with tomato and herbs. It also pairs well with aged cheddar or mushroom-based dishes. Enjoy it young for its plush fruit and energy, or cellar for 8 to 10 years to develop deeper savoury and chocolatey complexity.