This Shiraz is sourced from the Hongell family vineyard in the northern Barossa region of Krondorf, co-fermented with 1% Viognier and 26% whole bunches. Dan Standish describes it as a "Goldilocks vintage," and I agree. It’s an exceptional wine, among the best Shiraz-Viognier blends in Australia. The wine is incredibly pure and detailed, with perfect balance, showcasing rich fruit density of plum and blue fruits, accented by spice and meaty complexity. The fine, vibrant tannins are enhanced by the whole-bunch fermentation, which adds brightness, and the finish is long, sleek, and stunning.

The Standish Wine Company operates quietly, without flashy marketing or boasting. Their status as one of the Barossa’s top producers speaks for itself. The winery, located off the beaten path on Kalimna Road and open by appointment only, adds to its mystique. Dan Standish, a 6th-generation Barossan winemaker, refined his skills working in the Rhône Valley, Spain, and the US. He founded The Standish Wine Company in 1999 while also working as the winemaker at Torbreck. The winery is known for its focus on fruit purity and transparency of terroir, with a range of exceptional Shiraz from Greenock, Marananga, Krondorf, and the Eden Valley. It’s a standout example of the ‘New Barossa’ movement.

Halliday Rating: 96 points