Winemaker Notes
The expression of Shiraz from the temperate Margaret River region combines the ripeness and opulence of warmer climates with the spice and elegance typical of cooler ones. Howard Park’s 2016 Leston Shiraz is a fine example of this appealing style. Generous aromas of black plums provide a luscious richness, complimented by the inviting mocha and cocoa notes of French oak. Hints of ginger, anise and pepper add elegance and spice. Round in texture, the palate’s soft red berry fruits and plush mouthfeel is refreshed by chewy, vibrant tannins.
Professional Ratings
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Wine & Spirits
Leston, in Wilyabrup, is the Burch family’s first vineyard, this shiraz planted between 1998 and 2001 in gravelly loam over clay. Immediately spicy and bold, with some barnyard stink, this wine’s pungent aromas and severe tannins smooth out with air. The flavors deepen as the tannic tension turns toward grace. If you decant this a few hours before grilling lamb, it will be firm, juicy and delicious by dinnertime.
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James Suckling
Sweet tobacco, spice and plum with nutmeg undertones. Medium body, firm and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Delicious now.
Marked by an unmistakable deep purple hue and savory aromatics, Syrah makes an intense, powerful and often age-worthy red. Native to the Northern Rhône, Syrah achieves its maximum potential in the steep village of Hermitage and plays an important component in the Red Rhône Blends of the south, adding color and structure to Grenache and Mourvèdre. Syrah is the most widely planted grape of Australia and is important in California and Washington. Sommelier Secret—Such a synergy these three create together, the Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre trio often takes on the shorthand term, “GSM.”
Home to some of Australia’s most elegant and long-lived red and white wines, Margaret River is situated in the farthest reaches of Western Australia. Relatively warm and dry, the region is cooled by breezes from the Indian Ocean. Margaret River takes some inspiration from Bordeaux, producing top-quality Cabernet Sauvignons and Bordeaux Blends with firm structure, mouthwatering acidity, balanced alcohol and notes of herbs and spice. For white wines, refreshing blends of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon as well as complex, age-worthy Chardonnays are regional specialties.