2023 Hungerford Hill Classic Shiraz, Hunter Valley

A halo of dotted violet florals surround raspberry, black cherries and rhubarb. Kalamata olives swim in rosemary scented brine. A touch of pink peppercorn too. Tannins are quite grainy and will see this wine age well, for now it adds chew and a gauze like grip, deepening textural complexity. Flavours linger long and wide with some subtle cedar and cassia bark spice. Taut with quivering energy and a wonderful assembly of fruit, herbs, soil and spice. Excellent value, buy it by the dozens. Partner with lamb cutlets, the fat juicy ones.

95 points Shanteh Wale for Wine Pilot, June 2026

There is a serene nature to this mid-weight shiraz, with its poise, grace and detail. It has an elegant, sculpted palate, with a fine core of cherry fruit nestled within. The flavours move through the palate with effortless flow, and drinking it is an utter delight.

95 points Special Value Toni Paterson MW for Halliday Wine Companion, August 2025

Deep ruby in appearance, with saddle leather, savoury leaf and blackberry fruit on the nose—classic Hunter. Ripe but restrained on the palate, dry and powerful, with firm tannins to close. Drink to 2041.

92 points Melissa Moore for The Real Review, May 2026

Hungerford Hill is a Hunter Valley based winery established in 1967. Their offer has slowly grown to take in the Hilltops and Tumbarumba regions of NSW, while the presence in the Hunter has grown through purchases of Sweetwater and Dalwood. The three names remain distinct but share the expertise of Hungerford Hill’s viticultural and winemaking teams. The grapes for this wine were hand-harvested from select blocks across the Dalwood and Sweetwater vineyards.

Current Chief Winemaker is Pierre Durand, who has worked at many of the biggest local names, including Tyrrell’s, Brokenwood and Margan.