Varietal Classics: Australian Shiraz
2015: Gold 2 Silver 4 Bronze 3 Commended 4
2014: Gold 2 Silver 5 Bronze 2 Commended 3
It might be ever harder to find decent Aussie Shiraz under £8 (so well done to Redheads Studio), but there were few complaints from the teams about the quality here. Whether you wanted classic ‘big and sweet with American oak’ or the ‘New Roo’ style of lighter and spicier, there were good examples to choose from throughout.
FOOTNOTE: The price limit for the Varietal Classics category is £12 ex-VAT. Australian Shiraz can also be entered in the relevant New World Shiraz category.
From the Tasting Teams
‘A brilliant line-up and great value. From £7 to £10 we had great wines which will sit very well on the list. You can see why these are popular, they really deliver so much for the price.’ Roger Jones, The Harrow at Little Bedwyn
‘Intriguingly, the more old school wines tended to be at the higher price points.’ Michael Harrison, consultant
‘Big meaty Shirazes are actually a bit limiting in terms of food; the lighter, fresher styles are far more flexible. But both styles should be on a list as both have a following.’ Jonathan Kleeman, The Ritz Hotel
‘You can never go wrong with Shiraz!’ Lukasz Walkowiak, Oxo Tower Restaurant