Forest Hill Block 9 Shiraz 2023

Tasting Notes

The Forest Hill Block 9 Shiraz 2023 is a true expression of its unique terroir, made from 39-year-old dry-grown vines. On the nose, it offers a vibrant mix of fresh violets, ripe blueberries, and juicy plum, with a layer of spice and black liquorice that adds complexity. Subtle nuances of fresh aniseed and fine oak further enrich the bouquet.

The palate reveals a plush, concentrated fruit profile, with cherry and plum flavours complemented by savoury undertones of sundried tomato, tarragon, and sage. The medium body provides a beautifully textured mouthfeel, and the wine is framed by chalky tannins that guide the fruit across the palate. There’s a touch of reduction, which adds a Rhone-like character and hints at its excellent ageing potential.

Matured in 600L demi-muid barrels with no new oak, this Shiraz benefits from extended time on gross lees, which contributes to its depth and complexity. The wine’s bright, radiant colour is a testament to its vitality, and its supple acidity ensures it remains nimble, making it a perfect candidate for long-term cellaring.

Perfect Pairings

This Shiraz pairs wonderfully with rich, hearty dishes. Try it with a slow-roasted lamb shoulder, grilled steaks, or a charcuterie board with aged cheeses. It also complements earthy dishes like mushroom risotto or braised beef, enhancing the wine’s savoury complexity. Whether you’re celebrating or savouring a quiet evening, the Forest Hill Block 9 Shiraz is the perfect companion.

Additional Information

• Grape Variety: 100% Shiraz
• Region: Mount Barker, Great Southern, Western Australia
• Cellaring Potential: 20+ years
• Closure: Screwcap (for freshness and longevity)
• Style: Medium-bodied, complex, age-worthy red
• Serving Temperature: Best served between 16°C and 18°C

Accolades

97 Points – Ray Jordan

“This excellent block has been dry grown since being planted in 1985. A little more hands-on here compared to the standard shiraz with hand plunging daily. Once again, it has been put into a larger format oak, which helps strike such a precise oak and fruit balance. It’s an elegant wine with bright red fruits displaying some quite exotic spices and a little dried herb. Plenty of time in the cellar will enhance”

95 Points – Wine Companion 

“Multiple picks from the single site lend complexity to the wine. Medium weight, silky textured and highly perfumed red wine with a pleasing, savoury bent. Red cherry, a touch of cola, some green olive, game meat, dusty spices, mint and pepper. Lithe and fresh feeling with a light dusting of grippy tannin that falls in a web over the wine. A sense of elegance, and a distinct ‘syrah-like’ sensibility to this wine. It’s not trying too hard, but effortlessly makes the (high) grade”

FAQ Wine Terms 🤔

• Demi-Muid Barrels: These large 600L barrels are used to mature the wine. The larger size means less contact with the wood, preserving the fruit character while allowing subtle oak influence. The absence of new oak ensures the wine’s complexity without overpowering the fruit.
• Gross Lees: These are the dead yeast cells left after fermentation. The wine is aged on the gross lees to develop added depth and texture, giving it a richer mouthfeel and more complex flavours.
• Reduction: A slight reduction is a winemaking term that refers to a wine’s subtle, earthy or “flinty” character. It can give the wine more complexity and is often a sign of quality, especially in wines with good ageing potential.
• Chalky Tannins: Tannins are natural compounds in wine that create structure and texture. “Chalky” tannins are softer, providing a smooth yet firm grip on the palate. They help guide the wine’s flavours and contribute to its ability to age well.

• Terroir: This French term refers to the unique combination of soil, climate, and environment where the grapes are grown. The terroir of the Forest Hill vineyard imparts distinct earthy and mineral qualities to the wine, which come through in the final product.