2023 Hewitson The Mad Hatter Shiraz, Barossa Valley

No down the rabbit hole with this release. It's just a purely fruited Barossan shiraz that ticks all the boxes. Deeply coloured, with bright aromas of pure satsuma plum, blueberry and boysenberry fruits dusted with hints of baking spices, licorice, pan juices, dried raspberry, blossom and chocolate. Much the same on the palate, which shows a lovely swell of pure fruit and supporting spice, fine, sandy tannin and a pleasing bright line that lends energy to the wine's form. Nice one.

94 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

Hewitson The Mad Hatter Shiraz is a bold and characterful Barossa Valley red that reflects both the generosity of the region and the irrepressible personality of its maker. The fruit is sourced from old vine Barossa Shiraz vineyards, many planted on the region’s classic red brown earths over clay and ironstone that naturally deliver concentration, plush texture and deep flavour. Warm days build richness while cooler nights help retain balance, resulting in a wine that is unapologetically Barossan yet crafted with intent rather than excess.

Hewitson was founded by Dean Hewitson, one of Australia’s most recognisable and passionate winemakers, whose career has been defined by a deep respect for old vines and a flair for expressive, story driven wines. After working in Bordeaux and across South Australia, Hewitson established his own label in the late 1990s, quickly earning a reputation for wines of personality, generosity and authenticity. The Mad Hatter is a reflection of that spirit, drawing on quality vineyard sources and confident winemaking to create a Shiraz that is both approachable and serious. Oak is used to frame the fruit, adding spice and structure without overshadowing the natural Barossa richness.

In the glass the wine shows a deep, opaque crimson colour. Aromas are immediately expressive, offering blackberry, dark plum and blueberry layered with chocolate, mocha, licorice and warm spice. The palate is full bodied and plush, delivering rich dark fruit, velvety tannins and a long, generous finish with hints of vanilla, spice and savoury depth. It is a natural partner for grilled meats, slow cooked beef, lamb and barbecue, and while highly enjoyable on release, it will also cellar comfortably for ten to fifteen years, developing more savoury, earthy complexity over time.

Hewitson The Mad Hatter Shiraz is a confident, crowd pleasing yet well made Barossa Shiraz, combining old vine depth, generous fruit and polished structure in a style that is unmistakably Hewitson.