Tscharke Wines Gnadenfrei North Shiraz 2021

Deep soaking winter rains that trickled into spring provided a spectacular start to the growing season. The moist soils minimised the threat of frosts, followed with a mild spring at bud break made for a promising start to an incredible vintage. Despite its dryness, the growing season was relatively mild. Warm days, cool nights and little to no disease pressure gave rise to fruit rich in flavour and naturally high acid, all with relatively modest sugar levels. The wines produced from 2021 will drink well young and many, if allowed, will cellar well to remind us of the great vintage. One of the best vintages in the recent decade.

Semi-translucent crimson colour.

The bouquet is dominated by spice. Notes of cardamom, clove, dried herbs and dried violets are supported by a background of dark fruit, plum and blueberry. Mineral notes speak of the rugged slope on which the grapes grow.

The palate shows extreme precision. A tight, linear structure makes the wine almost electric. A vivid forest fruit impression interlaces with floral and herbaceous flavours.

Tension and beauty define this shiraz, with a long finish of exotic spices and velvety tannins.

Best decanted in its youth, this wine will develop gracefully over the next decade and beyond.