Even Keel Shiraz 2023 by the Even Keel crew out of Heathcote is a dark, seductive Victorian red – all florals, spice and earth wrapped around generous, mouth‑filling fruit. Grown on east‑facing slopes in classic red Cambrian soils and made with a light touch in Red Hill, this Even Keel Heathcote Shiraz 2023 shows both power and polish. It is the kind of modern Aussie Shiraz that feels plush without ever getting clumsy.

The nose is wonderfully aromatic with violets, lavender, peppery spice and blue fruits, layered over dark plum, mulberry and ferric earth. On the palate it is full‑bodied yet refreshing, loaded with blackberry, plum, dark cherry, mocha, licorice, tobacco leaf and dried herbs, all laced with a ferrous, mineral core. Fine, velvety tannins and a savoury graphite edge drive a long, moreish finish that has you heading straight back to the glass.

On the table, 2023 Even Keel Shiraz is made for grilled rib‑eye, slow‑roasted lamb shoulder or a rich beef and mushroom pie, where that dark fruit and spice wrap beautifully around the protein. It will also shine with charred eggplant, hearty bean stews, barbecued sausages or a slab of aged cheddar in front of the fire. At around the mid‑$30s a bottle, it is cracking value Heathcote Shiraz to drink now or stash for five to eight years.