2018 Old Paddock Shiraz '1921 Vines', Mount Pleasant

This is one of the Hunter Valley’s great old-vine reds, drawn from the first Shiraz vineyard planted by the legendary Maurice O’Shea at Mount Pleasant in 1921. Nearly a century old at harvest, these vines deliver remarkable intensity without unnecessary weight. Plum, black cherry, raspberry and blackberry rise from the glass, followed by black olive, clove, cracked pepper, warm earth and a gentle suggestion of old leather. It feels historic, certainly, but also wonderfully alive.

The palate is concentrated yet classically medium-bodied, with vivid red and black fruit carried by bright acidity and masses of fine, powdery tannin. Savoury spice, olive and earthy detail gather through the middle, before the wine tightens into a long, firm and beautifully focused finish. There is already plenty to admire, especially after a generous decant, but its balance and formidable structure promise many more years of graceful development. 

Pairs with rosemary-roasted lamb, venison, beef Wellington, duck, mushroom pithivier, braised short rib, or mature cheddar.

Mount Pleasant is one of the foundation estates of fine Australian wine, established in 1921 by Maurice O’Shea, the visionary widely regarded as a father of modern Australian winemaking. Old Paddock was his first vineyard at the estate, planted that same year with cuttings from the legendary Old Hill block of 1880. Its easterly aspect, deep red volcanic loams and protection from hot afternoon sun and wind give the fruit its exceptional concentration, structure and longevity. This single-vineyard Shiraz is Mount Pleasant at its most historic and exacting, carrying O’Shea’s original vision directly into the glass.