2023 De Iuliis Lovedale Road LDR Shiraz Touriga Nacional, Hunter Valley

"De Iuliis were the first to plant touriga in the Hunter Valley, as it thrives in hot, dry conditions. It introduces a gorgeous floral and savoury tone to shiraz, adding a rustic base note that counterbalances the plentiful sweet fruit. Glacé cherries, pink rose petals, boiled sweets and dark, plummy fruit. The palate is juicy and plush, with creamy oak, lemony acidity and a faint, earthy minerality lying deep within." 

95 Points, Special Value,  Toni Paterson, Halliday Wine Companion

De Iuliis Lovedale Road LDR Shiraz Touriga Nacional is a bold and characterful red from the Hunter Valley, blending the region’s signature Shiraz with the vibrant, perfumed power of Touriga Nacional. This blend is an unconventional twist that works brilliantly in the warm Hunter climate, with both varieties thriving in the sun-drenched Lovedale subregion on the rich red soils of the De Iuliis family vineyards.

Winemaker Mike De Iuliis brings a modern touch to traditional Hunter techniques, crafting this wine with minimal intervention and maximum personality. Fermentation is carried out in small open-top fermenters before ageing in seasoned French oak, allowing the fruit to shine while adding depth and polish.

The Shiraz brings ripe plum, black cherry and a savoury undercurrent, while Touriga layers in blackberry, violet, and a whiff of exotic spice. The palate is juicy and medium to full bodied, with plush fruit, bright acidity and fine, chalky tannins. It’s vibrant, expressive and built for versatility.

A fantastic match with Portuguese roast chicken, lamb skewers, eggplant lasagne or smoky barbecue dishes. Drink now for its generous fruit or cellar for up to 7 years as the spice and structure integrate further.