Boutinot Australia, ‘Soldier’s Block’ Shiraz, 2024, Victoria (GI)

'One-Liner'
A bright, supple Victorian Shiraz with juicy blackberry and mulberry, peppery spice and a gentle savoury edge – silky, generous and dangerously easy to enjoy.

Tasting Note
Ripe blackberry, mulberry and dark cherry lead into violet, cracked pepper and a subtle savoury, smoky note, with just a hint of eucalyptus adding freshness. The palate is juicy and beautifully supple, with soft tannins and bright acidity keeping the dark fruit lively, while restrained barrel ageing brings a touch of vanilla and spice. Smooth and fruit-driven through the finish, with lingering mulberry, pepper and a faint saline edge.

Country: Australia
Region: Victoria GI
Sub-Region: n/a
Grape(s): 95% Shiraz, 5% Malbec
ABV: 13.5%
Friendly: Vegan, Vegetarian

Awards & Critics' Scores
n/a

The Story
Soldier’s Block is made by Boutinot Australia and takes its name from Australia’s Returned Soldiers Settlement Act of 1915, under which returning servicemen were offered parcels of land – some of which went on to become vineyards. The fruit for this wine comes from Victoria, where the Shiraz is picked at night to retain freshness before cool, controlled fermentation keeps the tannins soft and the fruit firmly to the fore. Around a fifth of the wine sees barrel ageing, adding gentle spice without weighing down its naturally juicy character, while a small addition of Malbec brings an extra flash of mulberry fruit and floral perfume.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Slow-braised beef goulash with sweet paprika and caraway
- Vegetarian: Charred mushroom tacos with pickled onions and yoghurt sauce
- Vegan: Smoky aubergine, black bean and lime rice bowl