Howard Park Leston Cabernet 2023
G 96
From the Leston Vineyard in Wilyabrup in the heart of Margaret River, often considered their most exciting sub-region of all, the vines were planted in 1996. This release is from the sensational 2023 vintage. Maturation was in French oak for a year and a half, one-quarter of it new. Tasted on a couple of occasions of late, it has been consistently impressive. Purple maroon in colour, there are tight oak notes evident, but integration is proceeding well. The nose gives us earthy aromas along with black cherries, tobacco leaves, plums, cold tea, dark chocolate, cloves and leather. An intense style leading to firm tannins, there is underlying power throughout. Well balanced, with a seductive texture, the wine has serious length. This is still very youthful and there is much promise. To be enjoyed over the next twelve to fifteen years. Drink 2027–2040 Howard Park Leston Shiraz 2023 G 96 With wines like this, one wonders why Margaret River Shiraz seems to lurk in the shadows, always taking second place to Cabernet. Given the quality of Cabernet from the region, I guess it is not that hard to fathom, but this is a stunning wine deserving of love and affection from anyone who enjoys top-notch red wine. It has already picked up a number of trophies, deservedly so, and comes from the spectacular 2023 vintage. It hails from Blocks 4 and 17 in the Leston Vineyard, which provides their best Shiraz fruit. The wine enjoys 10% whole bunch fermentation, and 30% of the oak used for maturation was new. An inky maroon/purple colour, the nose reveals notes of plums, chocolate, cassis, black fruits and smoked meats. There is exceptional balance here, with freshness, energy and focus. A medium weight style with a seductive texture and amazing length, it is purple fruits to the fore here. A cracking Shiraz which will provide pleasure for at least the next two decades. Drink now–2042 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Shiraz 2023 G 96 When I first saw this wine, I thought it was one of the very best of this line made by the team at Leeuwin. If anything, that view is now reinforced. And trust me, at this price, it is one of the better value Shiraz from anywhere in Australia, not just Margaret River. The stunning 2023 vintage just keeps giving. An inky maroon hue, there is a dark crimson rim. The nose is full of notes of cassis, choc/cherry, spices, bay leaves, warm earth, liquorice, charcuterie and graphite. Utterly gorgeous. Fine silky tannins complete this medium weight style, which offers decent length, and which should build further over the coming decade. A very fine Margaret River Shiraz for enjoying over the next 10 to 15 years. Drink 2027–2038
Margaret River 2026
27
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