2023 Provenance Shiraz, Geelong

From a vineyard planted in 1997, 5km south of the Bannockburn township in the Moorabool Valley. Fermented with whole berries and matured in mainly seasoned puncheons. A bright, medium ruby red. Aromas of blackberries, kirsch, olive tapenade and a little incense precede the supple, medium-bodied and deceptively well-structured palate. It's balanced enough to enjoy now with food, but it's also been built to cellar well, for at least the next seven to 10 years.

95 points Special Value Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

From cool maritime vineyards across Geelong, this Shiraz shows a more savoury, pepper edged expression of the variety compared to warmer inland regions. Provenance focuses on regional clarity, and the fruit here benefits from steady ocean influence and a long growing season that builds flavour without excess weight. The result is a wine shaped by freshness and spice, carrying Geelong’s cool climate signature.

Winemaking is geared toward balance and texture. Extraction is measured to preserve perfume, and oak is used as a structural frame rather than a dominant flavour. The aim is a Shiraz that feels medium bodied, energetic and food friendly.

Deep ruby in colour, the aromas open with blackberry, plum and red cherry, followed by cracked pepper, violets and subtle earth. There is a lifted savoury edge that keeps the bouquet lively. The palate is medium bodied and silky, with dark fruit wrapped in fine tannins and bright acidity. Flavours of berry and spice carry into a clean, mineral finish that lingers without heaviness.

It pairs beautifully with lamb, grilled meats, mushroom dishes and slow roasted vegetables. Drinking well now for its vibrancy, it will hold comfortably for six to eight years, gaining savoury complexity.

This is Geelong Shiraz in a refined register, spicy, fresh and built around balance rather than power.