2021 Paul Osicka Heathcote Shiraz

Established in 1955 by former Czech vigneron Paul Osicka, this is Heathcote’s oldest producer, 2021 marking the 66th anniversary of the planting of the vineyard. Today, grandson Simon tends the 10 hectares of Shiraz vineyard producing a rich, highly revered Shiraz that always disappears quickly off the shelves. Fruit grown on different soil types was picked and fermented separately in small open top pots. With extended time on skins the wine was pressed and then matured in French Oak for 14 months, including 20% new oak.

A beautifully balanced Heathcote Shiraz – refined, slippery and fresh yet simultaneously rich and powerful.

Dense black as night heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Expressive liquorice, blackberry, dark plum and blueberry scents sail from the glass with terrific intensity followed by hints of choc mint, vanillin cedar and subtle peppered earth notes. Rich, expansive and powerful, the palate is saturated with waves of opulent liquorice, blackberry and dark plum fruits. Some blueberry lends freshness whilst elements of choc mint, vanillin cedar, infusions of fresh herbs, light earth and pepper add further nuance to the back half. Seamlessly integrated, velvet smooth tannins finishing with exceptional length and a real sense of refinement.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 14.3%

Other Reviews……
There's such solid flavour here and yet it all seems so respectable, and so well managed. Simon Osicka's wines are always so impeccable. Cool mint, ripe plums, crushed violets and assorted woodsy spice notes have this in a fine, flavoursome shape. The texture is velvety and tannin rolls and curls its way through the back half of the wine, keeping everything in line. This is a super release. Drink by 2035.
95 points
Campbell Mattinson – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion