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A bottle of wine, Forest Hill Estate Shiraz

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$32.00

Forest Hill

Estate Shiraz 2022

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Forest Hill Wines Estate Shiraz 2022

The Forest Hill Vineyard Shiraz 2022 is a delightful expression of the winery’s modern winemaking approach. This vintage greets you with lifted aromas of blue fruits, floral notes, and the classic Mount Barker spice that adds lovely complexity. With a focus on freshness, about 80% of the wine is aged in large foudres, while the remainder spends time in 500 and 600-litre barrels. This technique not only minimises the influence of oak but also allows the vibrant character of the vineyard to shine through.

The 2022 growing season was unique, marked by a late harvest that let the grapes linger on the vine longer. This extended ripening period results in an inviting perfume of cherry and plum, bursting with energy and vibrancy. On the palate, the wine reveals a medium body, supported by a solid core and structure. The use of whole berry fermentation in open tanks ensures a bright fruit expression while avoiding excessive extraction, resulting in a wine that feels fresh and lively.

As you sip, you’ll notice the palate is beautifully layered, with warm spices and oak subtly making their presence felt. Juicy red and black cherries mingle with hints of liquorice, creating a rich and satisfying experience. The fine, ripe tannins and balanced acidity keep everything in harmony, making this Shiraz both approachable and intriguing.

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Wine Companion – 96 Points

From a blend of estate sites, including Block 9 planted in 1985. Its deep colour introduces a shiraz with an almost endless array of fragrant blackberry fruits, licorice, plum and spices – and exceptional value. James Halliday

Ray Jordan – 94 Points

Bright and brilliant. It reflects the new style of less oak and using about 80% in big foudres and the balance in 500 and 600l barrels. It was a very late season and sat on the vine for ages, It has a beautiful cherry and plummy perfume with such energy and vibrancy. The palate is medium-bodied but there is plenty of structure and core here. Lots of whole berry in open ferments to avoid too much extraction and time on skins. This is spicy with a meat charcuterie character that is so appealing.

Learn More About Forest Hill

Forest Hill Winery: A Pioneer of Cool Climate Wines in Western Australia

Forest Hill Winery holds a significant place in the history of Western Australia’s wine industry, recognized as the first cool climate vineyard established in the region. Its story begins in the 1960s when Tony and Betty Pearce, after extensive research throughout the South-West, identified a site with immense potential for grape cultivation. In 1965, they planted a modest two-hectare vineyard on their property, laying the foundation for what would become a prominent name in Australian winemaking.

Fifty years later, Forest Hill Winery remains family-owned and operated, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to quality and tradition. The winery crafts its wines in Denmark, a charming coastal town not far from the vineyard, with grapes sourced exclusively from the historic Forest Hill Vineyard in Mount Barker. This commitment to the original site not only honors the winery’s heritage but also allows for the expression of unique terroir in every bottle.

The Unique Terroir of Great Southern

Located in the Great Southern wine region, Forest Hill Winery benefits from the cool climate that defines this area. The region, characterized by its rugged landscapes and pristine environment, experiences a maritime influence that contributes to its cooler temperatures compared to other parts of Western Australia. This climate is vital for producing high-quality wines, as it allows for a longer ripening period, leading to enhanced flavor development in the grapes.

The soils at Forest Hill are primarily lateritic gravelly and sandy loams, as well as sandy loams derived from granite bedrock. These soil types are well-draining and rich in minerals, providing the ideal foundation for vines to thrive. The combination of cool climate and diverse soil types results in distinctive fine wines that capture the essence of the land and its environment.

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Varietals and Winemaking Philosophy

Forest Hill Winery is renowned for its range of varietals that showcase the benefits of cool climate viticulture. Among the standout varieties are Riesling, Chardonnay, Shiraz & Cabernet, each reflecting the unique characteristics of the site. Riesling, in particular, has garnered acclaim for its aromatic complexity and crisp acidity, embodying the purity of fruit that cool climates can produce. The Chardonnays are often noted for their elegance and balance.

The winery’s winemaking philosophy is deeply rooted in respect for the land and the seasons. Each wine is a reflection of the site, the season, and the dedicated people who nurture the vines. This hands-on approach allows the team to maintain the integrity of the grapes, ensuring that the wines express the true character of the vineyard.

Sustainability and Future Directions

As Forest Hill Winery looks to the future, sustainability remains a core principle. The winery is committed to environmentally responsible practices, from vineyard management to winemaking techniques. This focus not only enhances the quality of the wines but also contributes to the long-term health of the vineyard and surrounding ecosystem.

forest hill vineyard,denmark, western australia.

Forest Hill Winery sits in the Great Southern wine region, situated within the ancient, rugged, and pristine environment bordering the south coast of Western Australia, is the coolest in Western Australia. Soils are mostly lateritic gravelly and sandy loams, or sandy loams derived from granite bedrock. Stretching north, east, and west from Western Australia’s south coast, the largest wine-growing region in mainland Australia. These are distinctive fine wines that benefit from cool climate viticulture in a clean, green environment.

The accolades for the Forest Hill wine range are extensive, with the likes of Wine Companion and Ray Jordan giving outstanding scores.

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If you are planning on visiting the Denmark region, make sure you visit the official wine association page HERE

If we don’t stock your favourite wine we can order it in, email us at info@partnersinwine.com.au

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