Charles Melton Grains of Paradise Shiraz 2018

One of the great wines of the Barossa Valley, not just because of its quality, but also its individuality of style. It is traditionally destemmed, plunged and pumped over, the oak providing the X-factor (plus high quality fruit). American oak is sent to France for 3 years air drying, then coopered using the boiling water method to soften the staves for bending, and only once half-made does it receive any fire toasting. Dargaud and Jaegle are the masters. Just relax and let the glorious black fruits sweep you away.

January, 2015. Dark plummy fruit with a splash of red cherries and mulberries providing the lift. Five-spice powder, red liquorice, fruited chocolate, marzipan, bay leaves, graphite and dark earth. Plenty of texture and flow on the palate though lacking the detail and complexity to take the score higher. Drink in 2018.

Tasted Sep 2013 - Juicy, absolutely pure red and black fruit. Shows just how great the Barossa can be: power with silkiness and refinement. Smooth oak integration. Manages to be both beautiful and heavyweight. (RH)