2019 Laughing Jack Moppa Hill Block 6 Shiraz, Barossa Valley

This superb single-vineyard Shiraz is sourced from a six-acre plot that was replanted in 2001. Sadly, the original 1912 vineyard was ripped out in the mid-1980s thanks to the SA government’s now-notorious vine pull scheme. Here in the Moppa sub-region the grapes grow on sandier soils than in Greenock (a mere 2km away as the crow flies) producing more perfumed wines with finer tannins. This release is no exception and, if you get the chance, it’s worth tasting alongside Laughing Jack’s Greenock Shiraz from the same year to see an example of sub-regional difference in the Barossa.

A medium deep, ruby red, this has red and black fruits to go, with a little liquorice and some attractive floral notes. On the palate, this ripe and perfectly balanced wine has persistent yet silky tannins meaning it can be enjoyed now or kept for at least another seven to 10 years plus.

“Sourced from a single 2.4ha block of Shiraz on Moppa Hill in the western Barossa, de-stemmed whole berries. Aged for 20 months in 63% seasoned French, 25% new French and 12% seasoned American oak hogsheads. Shawn Kalleske has composed a wonderful contemporary Barossa shiraz here. Compact, with excellent fruit purity, a super-ripe plum and blackberry base and abundant spice and – wonder of wonders – manages to combine both fruit density and a sense of space, finishing savoury, tight of tannin and with a fan of red and black fruits and layered spice.” 

95 points, Dave Brookes, for The Wine Companion