2023 Schwarz Wine Co The Grower Shiraz, Barossa Valley

The third release of The Grower Shiraz from Schwarz Wine Company. A vivid crimson-magenta hue hints at the purity in the glass. Lifted scents of red cherry, juicy satsuma plum and blueberry are laced with hints of ginger spice, cola, charcuterie, violets and a whisper of earthy loam. The palate follows on with a subtle mocha thread, spicy, plummy fruits, fine, sandy tannins and a swell of spice and earth on the finish. Great value.

92 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

The Schwarz Wine Co The Grower Shiraz from the Barossa Valley is a classic yet contemporary take on the region’s signature variety, crafted with a focus on purity, vineyard expression and balance. Jason Schwarz established Schwarz Wine Co in 2001, working closely with some of the Barossa’s most respected growers to showcase fruit from exceptional old vineyards, many of them dry-grown. The Grower Shiraz is his tribute to these multi-generational growers, who tend the vines that form the backbone of the wine.

Fruit is sourced from a selection of vineyards across the Barossa, many over 60 years old, grown on a patchwork of soils including deep red clays, sandy loams and ironstone. These sites bring richness, depth and aromatic lift to the final blend. The 2022 vintage delivered fruit of superb balance, with ripe concentration but also freshness thanks to a cooler season. Fermentation was carried out in small open fermenters with gentle handling, and the wine was matured in seasoned French oak to soften tannins and add texture without overt oak influence.

In the glass, it is deep crimson-purple. The bouquet is rich and perfumed, showing blackberry, mulberry and dark plum, with layers of violet, baking spice and a touch of pepper. On the palate it is full-bodied yet supple, with juicy black fruits, dark chocolate and spice supported by polished tannins. The finish is long and silky, marked by a savoury earthiness that reflects the Barossa’s diverse soils.

Food pairings highlight its depth and generosity: slow-roasted lamb shoulder, beef short ribs, venison with juniper, or vegetarian options such as roasted mushrooms, eggplant with miso glaze or a lentil and walnut loaf. With its concentration and balance, The Grower Shiraz can be enjoyed young but will cellar beautifully for 8 to 12 years, developing savoury, smoky complexity.