2020 Sons of Eden Zephyrus Shiraz

Sons of Eden is a partnership between winemaker Corey Ryan and viticulturist Simon Cowham who both learnt their trades in the vineyards and cellars of Eden Valley. The name of this wine is taken from Zephyrus, the Greek god of the west wind who is often depicted as a horse. The vineyards of the Barossa are regularly buffeted by cooling Westerly winds creating an ideal temperature range in which to slowly ripen Shiraz. The 2020 Zephyrus is a blend of 10 different Shiraz parcels located throughout a wide range of vineyard sites within the cooler climate Eden Valley (53%) and warmer Barossa Valley (47%) regions. The vines are aged between 20-60 years old. Each parcel of fruit was fermented with varying levels of whole-bunch fruit clusters (between 10% to 35%). Maturation took place in a mix of new (35%) and seasoned French oak hogsheads for a period of 12 months.

Inky black in colour with a very deep black dark red hue. Intense liquorice, dark plum and black cherry scents sail out of the glass trailed by dried herb, smoky cedar and peppered dried meat notes. Rich, full bodied and opulently textured the lavish palate is drenched in black cherry, liquorice and spicy dark plum fruits. Adding further interest are dried herb, smoky cedar and peppered meat characters. Polished and silky yet possessing a sturdy underlying tannin structure it finishes exceptionally deep and powerful.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews….
Lots of blackberry, earth, black mushroom and bark on the nose and palate. Full and layered. Juicy undertones. Subtle, yet flavorful. Dried beef and raw meat at the end with black pepper. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
95 Points
JamesSuckling.com

Open fermented and hand plunged, each fermenter with a portion of whole bunches (10–35%). Matured for 12 months in French hogsheads (35% new) and bottled without fining or filtration. A delicious shiraz, with a juicy mouthfeel, partly due to whole bunches that also invest attractive spicy notes on the finish. Drink by 2035.
96 points
James Halliday - Australian Wine Companion

Rich, lush, spice/pepper and aged leather nose, with dark and cooler red fruit aromatics. The mouthfeel is full and fleshy, with clusters of precision berries dancing on the palate with incredible freshness. Ample soft tannins add structure and balance. A wine that will age for years.
95 points
Decanter World Wine Awards 2020