Critic Scores:

• 19+/20 – Matthew Jukes
• 98 – Erin Larkin, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
• 98 – Huon Hooke, The Real Review
• 98 – Ray Jordan, Wine Pilot
• 98 – Tony Love, The Vintage Journal
• 98 – Jeni Port, The Vintage Journal
• 98 – Nick Ryan, The Weekend Australian
• 18+/20 – Jancis Robinson MW
• 97+ – Andrew Caillard MW, The Vintage Journal
• 97 – Dave Brookes, Halliday Wine Companion
• 97 – Ken Gargett, Wine Pilot
• 97 – Jamie Goode, Wine Anorak
• 96 – Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front
• 95 – Tom Kline, Wine Pilot

The 2022 release marks the 70th anniversary of this Australian icon, a vintage defined by an extraordinary cool-climate luminosity and high-toned aromatic freshness. In the glass, the wine glows with youthful vibrancy, offering a sophisticated perfume where primary blackberry and plum are intricately woven with signature scents of rubbed sage, bay leaf, and cracked peppercorn.

The palate is characterized by its remarkable "graceful arc of travel," showcasing a sleek, polished core of dark fruit supported by a frame of mineral tension, iron, and flint. Unlike more opulent years, this iteration prioritizes finesse and structural energy, featuring "soft wool-like tannins" that melt seamlessly into the fruit.

Erin Larkin of The Wine Advocate awarded this vintage 98 points, noting its intricate savory-sweet balance and describing it as "one of the most lovely Mount Edelstone Vineyard Shirazes I havetasted on release." The finish is exceptionally tidy and persistent, indicating a wine of profound poise and longevity.