2012 Carlei Estate Nord Heathcote Shiraz

Organically grown since 2001 and biodynamically farmed since 2006, this Shiraz hails from low-yielding vines rooted in the deep red Cambrian soils of northern Heathcote, on a gentle easterly slope. Harvested in two passes according to the lunar cycle, the fruit captures cosmic rhythms alongside optimal ripeness, balance, and flavour intensity.

The grapes were carefully destemmed—berries left intact, never crushed or pumped—to preserve their structure, then transferred to a 3800L open wooden vat for natural fermentation. Maceration lasted 22 days on skins with gentle pump-overs, followed by 18 months’ maturation in a mix of new and seasoned French Tronçais and Hungarian oak.

The bouquet is complex and savoury, with layers of brown spice, truffle, black pepper and smoky oak, laced with dark berries, ripe plum, and cherry. It’s a powerful, earthy Shiraz—chewy and fleshy in texture, balanced by fine tannins and vibrant acidity. A hint of musky perfume rounds out the finish, which is long and structured.

Awards:
🏆 Trophy – Best Bio Wine, AWSC Hong Kong 2017
🥇 Gold Medal – Best Shiraz, AWSC Hong Kong 2017