96 Points - Ray Jordan
Leeuwin Estate has been in rare form lately with a string of favourable vintages allowing it to produce some wonderful examples of Margaret River Shiraz under the 'Art Series' label. The 2018 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Shiraz is made up of 93% Margaret Shiraz with a small amount of Malbec (6%), and a dash of Viognier (1%).
This offers up a myriad of cherries, mulberries and blood plums that provide the framework on the nose. The palate is approachable with plenty of vibrant red and black fruit flavours, a hint of dark chocolate and some soft tannin providing lovely structure. A sublime release that demonstrates the lofty heights Margaret River Shiraz is capable of reaching.
"96 Points. This marks the continuing evolution of shiraz from Leeuwin Estate – this is pretty close to the best since the project to kick start this variety was launched some years ago. It has a sumptuous fruity mix on the palate with gravelly textured tannins and neatly weighted oak, which is a mix of new and slightly older. The new just adds a touch of spicy lift leaving the wine delicious and generous. Drink: 2021- 2031" - Ray Jordan, winepilot.com