Product Description
The 2022 Bannockburn Shiraz continues to demonstrate the exceptional character of the estate’s vineyards, combining fruit from the Winery Block (planted in 1990), Range Block (1974), and a touch of declassified De La Roche (2007). These vineyards sit on volcanic scoria over basalt, clay, and loam, with a limestone-clay base, creating a perfect environment for growing Shiraz with distinct mineral and savoury characteristics.
The growing conditions in 2022 were ideal, with a balanced ripening period following a wet spring. The Shiraz was spontaneously fermented with 10% whole bunches and a touch of carbonic maceration, enhancing the wine’s brightness and purity. After spending two weeks on skins, it was pressed and matured for 10 months in a mix of French oak hogsheads and puncheons (10% new). Winemaker Matt Holmes focused on reducing new oak and incorporating more carbonic influence, allowing the inherent savoury qualities of the mature Winery Block to shine through. This meticulous approach resulted in a mid-weight Shiraz with vibrant berry fruit, savoury depth, and striking structure.
Maker:
Bannockburn Vineyards, founded by Stuart Hooper in 1974, has earned a reputation as one of the Barossa Valley’s most respected estates. With a vision to create exceptional quality wines, Stuart’s journey began with the planting of Shiraz vines in the region’s unique terroir of volcanic soil and ancient sea beds. Over the years, Bannockburn’s growth continued with the addition of new vineyards and varieties, leading to the estate’s current focus on organic farming and sustainable viticulture. Matt Holmes, who joined as the winemaker in 2015, has continued the legacy with a fresh perspective, placing emphasis on minimal intervention winemaking. Under Matt’s direction, Bannockburn has evolved stylistically, moving towards a racier, more precise expression of the vineyard’s character while maintaining its core focus on quality, balance, and expression of terroir. Today, Bannockburn Vineyards is known for its distinct wines, especially its iconic Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, crafted from some of the oldest vines in the Geelong region.
Philosophy:
At Bannockburn, the philosophy is centred on the belief that great wines are a reflection of both the land and the winemaker’s careful stewardship. The estate’s organic practices ensure that each vine is nurtured in a way that respects the environment, with composting, straw mulching, and cover crops used to maintain soil health and avoid herbicide use. This commitment to organic farming allows the vineyard to flourish naturally, producing grapes of exceptional quality and distinct character. The focus on low-yielding, close-planted vines, particularly in their historic sites like the Serré and Olive Tree Hill vineyards, results in wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region—flavours are concentrated and textures are complex. In the winery, minimal intervention practices are followed, with wild yeast fermentations and low additions, allowing the true expression of the site to shine through. This careful, patient approach to both viticulture and winemaking results in wines that embody integrity, balance, and the unmistakable essence of Bannockburn.
Reviews + Accolades
“Savoury and earth-driven. with notes of Damson plums, graphite, blackcurrants and spices. The palate is medium- to full-bodied with focused acidity and finely integrated tannins, giving notes of wild blackberries, wet earth, cured meat and dried herbs. Wonderfully balanced and giving. Drink or hold. Screw cap.”
- jamessuckling.com, 95 points
“The 2022 Shiraz Geelong leads with distinctive game and cocoa, meat crust and peppercorns. In the mouth, the wine is silky and fine and so reminiscent of the bouquet. The finish is laden with cocoa powder and dried mint, clove and tarragon. Lovely wine, it is precisely distinctive of Bannockburn. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.”
- Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate, 92 points
Tasting Notes
NOSE – Savoury Depth & Freshness
A complex blend of Damson plums, graphite, blackcurrants, and spices, with a touch of cured meat and earthy undertones, creating an inviting, savoury aromatic profile.
PALATE – Bright, Balanced & Structured
Medium- to full-bodied, with focused acidity and silky tannins. Layers of wild blackberries, wet earth, and dried herbs are complemented by notes of pepper, clove, and tarragon, giving the wine a harmonious balance and complexity.
FINISH – Long & Precise
Clean and refreshing, with lingering cocoa powder and a touch of dried mint, offering a precise and beautifully balanced end.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - Geelong, Victoria
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13.5%
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