2023 Gibson The Dirtman Shiraz

Gibson Wines was founded in 1996 by Rob Gibson—viticulturist, geologist, and winemaker—whose “prospector’s spirit” continues to shape the family-run estate today. Together with wife Anne and son Adam, Rob champions wines that are proudly Dirtborn, expressive of Barossa’s diverse soils and heritage. The winery’s home is in Light Pass, northern Barossa, where vineyards surround an 1850s blacksmith’s cottage. Here, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Fiano are grown, including parcels trained on the innovative Gibson–Schulz trellis system co-invented by Rob. Light Pass, at 280m elevation, has a long history of viticulture dating back to German settlers of the 1830s and 1840s. The family also farms Burkes Hill in Eden Valley, an old-vine Shiraz and Riesling site, further deepening Gibson’s connection to Barossa and its surrounds.

The 2023 Dirtman Shiraz captures both the generosity of Barossa Valley fruit (78%) and the finesse of cooler Eden Valley sites (22%). Above-average winter rains followed by a mild, even ripening season produced fruit of purity and balance, with deep concentration and fine structure. Named after founder Rob Gibson—geologist, viticulturist, and winemaker—the Dirtman reflects his hands-on approach, walking every vineyard row and making picking decisions vine by vine. The wine delivers layers of ripe plum and blackberry framed by toasty oak, brown spice, and dark chocolate. Plush yet structured, with persistent tannins and a savoury backbone, it is both immediately compelling and built for graceful aging.
Alc. 14.2%