Whitebox Heathcote Shiraz 2022 is a rich, concentrated expression of Heathcote Shiraz from the Stuart Wines Company family vineyards at the base of the Mount Camel Range. Grown on Cambrian soils, it delivers the depth and structure that Heathcote's ancient greenstone geology is known to produce in Shiraz.
Tasting Notes
The 2022 opens with concentrated aromas of blackberry, black plum and violet, with white pepper, graphite and oak spice adding complexity and lift. The palate is rich, plush and generous, with the concentration and weight typical of Heathcote Shiraz at its best. Oak is well-integrated, and the finish shows firm, structured tannin with genuine persistence.
Vineyard & Region
The fruit is sourced from the Stuart Wines Company family vineyards in Heathcote, at the base of the Mount Camel Range. The estate includes a vineyard planted in 2000 on the ancient Cambrian soils that define the region's most regarded Shiraz sites. The vineyard takes its name from the White Box eucalypts that stand on the property.
Winemaking
Individual vineyard parcels were fermented separately using both small open fermenters with plunging and larger closed fermenters, with varying maceration applied by parcel. Malolactic fermentation followed, with components matured in a combination of new and old French oak, new and old American oak and temperature-controlled stainless steel for approximately 6–18 months according to structure, before final blending.
Cellaring & Serving
The 2022 is approachable now and will reward further bottle maturation. Serve at 16–18°C; decanting is recommended.
Food Pairing
Rich braised ox cheek, rare roast beef with pepper sauce, smoked brisket, roasted root vegetables with garlic and rosemary, and strongly flavoured cheeses.
