The 2022 vintage of Heathcote Estate Single Vineyard Shiraz stands as a hallmark of excellence, embodying the quintessential characteristics of a classic Heathcote Estate Shiraz. Crafted from carefully selected sections of the Heathcote Estate vineyard in Drummonds Lane, Heathcote, Central Victoria, this wine is a testament to the region’s iconic 500-million-year-old Cambrian soil, which imparts distinctive depth and character. Planted in 1999, the vineyard’s unique terroir shines through in this remarkable vintage.
This Shiraz is distinguished by its exceptional balance, offering a refined yet intense structure that captivates the palate. The wine reveals intricate layers of flavour, with rich, dark fruits such as blackberry and plum at its core, interwoven with complex notes of spice, including black pepper and hints of anise. Subtle undertones of graphite and earthy minerality, derived from the ancient Cambrian soil, add further dimension. The palate is seamless, with fine, velvety tannins providing structure and elegance, culminating in a long, persistent finish that lingers with grace and intensity.
This Shiraz is a wine of immense potential, with the structure and balance to reward careful cellaring. For optimal enjoyment, cellar for 5–15 years to allow its complex flavours and silky tannins to evolve, revealing even greater depth and sophistication over time.
This Single Vineyard Shiraz originates from meticulously chosen sections of the Heathcote Estate vineyard, located in Drummonds Lane, Heathcote, Central Victoria. The vineyard, established in 1999, is situated on the renowned 500-million-year-old Cambrian soil that defines the region's core.
The winery processed the six distinct blocks and their subsections individually, resulting in 20 unique batches from the 2022 vintage. The grapes underwent gentle de-stemming, with 20% whole bunches included, and were fermented in traditional oak fermenters. Following fermentation, the wines were pressed and transferred to 500L French Oak puncheons for malolactic fermentation. The wine was racked twice during maturation and bottled in February 2023.
The 2022 growing season began with a prolonged, cold winter in Heathcote, followed by a mild and adequately wet spring, which ensured optimal soil moisture. Mild weather persisted through the summer, delaying the harvest until February 19th. The fruit quality was exceptional, meeting the highest expectations. Notably, the 2022 vintage marked the estate’s first wine to be certified 100% organic, following a four-year transition period.
