2023 Dune Blewitt Springs Shiraz, McLaren Vale

Fermented with whole bunches, whole berries and crushed fruit, with 12 months in seasoned foudre (75%) and hogsheads (25%). Darkly wrought fruit, spicy and savoury, though not cresting out of medium weight, with a refined array of red fruits emerging with air. Powdered spices – star anise, allspice, clove, cassia – black cherry, dark-roast coffee bean, lavender, violet and nori. Delicious and, like all the Dune wines, truly exceptional value.

95 points Special Value Marcus Ellis winecompanion.com.au

Dune Blewitt Springs Shiraz from McLaren Vale is a standout red that showcases the rich, bold flavors of one of Australia’s most famous wine regions. McLaren Vale, with its warm Mediterranean climate and diverse soils, is the perfect place for growing Shiraz, and Dune Wines takes full advantage of the region's potential to craft wines that are as expressive as they are complex. The Blewitt Springs Shiraz, sourced from one of McLaren Vale’s most renowned sub-regions, is a wine that captures the essence of the terroir, with deep fruit flavors and a smooth, well-balanced structure.

Dune Wines takes a minimal intervention approach to winemaking, ensuring that the wine expresses the true character of the grapes and the land. The Blewitt Springs Shiraz is made from hand-harvested fruit, with the wine undergoing fermentation in small batches to preserve the purity of the fruit. After fermentation, it’s aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels, which adds layers of complexity while letting the rich fruit flavors shine.

In the glass, Dune Blewitt Springs Shiraz has a deep, dark ruby color, reflecting its rich and full-bodied character. The nose is intense and aromatic, with a burst of dark fruits like blackberry, plum, and blackcurrant, alongside a touch of spice, black pepper, and a hint of oak. There’s also a subtle earthiness and herbal undertone, characteristic of the Blewitt Springs region, which adds depth to the bouquet.

On the palate, this Shiraz is full-bodied with smooth, velvety tannins and a rich, round mouthfeel. The fruit flavors are bold and ripe, with blackberry, plum, and a touch of licorice. The oak aging adds layers of complexity, with notes of vanilla, chocolate, and a hint of tobacco. The acidity is well-balanced, providing a nice lift and keeping the wine fresh, while the finish is long and satisfying, with lingering dark fruit and spice notes.

Dune Blewitt Springs Shiraz is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of hearty dishes. Its bold fruit and smooth tannins make it a great match for grilled meats, such as steak, lamb, or barbecued ribs. It also pairs wonderfully with rich, flavorful dishes like slow-cooked beef stew, braised lamb, or even a charcuterie platter. This Shiraz is perfect for those who enjoy a big, expressive red with plenty of complexity.