Heartland Syrah / Shiraz, Australia
Heartland started out as a fascinating project developing new vineyards in the woody hinterland of South Australia's Limestone Coast. The flavours these grapes produced were awesome, but they couldn't keep up with demand, so began to blend in softer, juicier fruit from Langhorne Creek. So the wines are not now quite so eye-popping, but the remarkable Limestone Coast flavours are still there: eucalyptus, rosemary, lemon verbena acidity, intense blackcurrant - and these are mixed with a black purple scent, black treale and licorice bittersweet depth from Langhorne Creek. Well worth a try.
2012 90 Points - Wine Spectator
2013 91 Points James Halliday 90 Points Antonio Galloni
Tasting notes: A purple rim encompasses a core of deep ruby. The aromas are surprisingly dominated by red rather than black fruits and hints of spice. The blackberry fruit of the palate is accompanied by a playlist of spices, with cinnamon and licorice on high rotation.
Vinification: The Shiraz was de-stemmed, crushed and pumped over twice a day for ten days. The wine was matured in older oak barrels for twelve months prior to bottling.