2023 Thomas Wines Elenay Shiraz, Hunter Valley

The intensity, vibrancy and depth of this wine instantly draw you in. Beautifully made, it has fruit at the fore without overdoing it. The colour is deep, the palate is plush and the length is impressive. It's a blend of the barrels that just miss out on the individual vineyard wines due to style rather than quality. Outstanding, particularly for those with a penchant for dark, plush fruit, a touch of milk chocolate and lingering warm licorice spice.

96 points Special Value Toni Paterson MW winecompanion.com.au

From one of the Hunter Valley’s most respected single vineyards comes Elenay Shiraz, a wine that reflects Andrew Thomas’s deep understanding of the region and its historic sites. Thomas Wines was established in 1997 after Andrew Thomas spent years working alongside Murray Tyrrell, one of the Hunter’s most influential winemakers. His focus has always been on expressing individual vineyard character, and the Elenay vineyard has become one of the standout sources of fruit in the portfolio. Located in the central Hunter Valley, the site consistently produces Shiraz with depth, structure and the savoury complexity that defines the region’s best examples.

The wine shows a deep crimson colour with vibrant ruby tones. Aromas open with blackberry, dark plum and black cherry layered with cracked pepper, dried herbs and subtle floral notes. As the wine evolves in the glass further hints of liquorice, earth and gentle spice emerge. The palate is medium to full bodied with fine structured tannins carrying flavours of dark berries, plum and savoury spice across a balanced frame. Fresh acidity keeps the wine lively while careful oak maturation adds texture and polish.

The finish is long and persistent with lingering dark fruit and spice. It will continue to develop complexity over the next ten to fifteen years and is excellent with roast lamb, grilled beef or slow braised dishes.