Nepenthe Shiraz

Nepenthe Shiraz 2023 from Nepenthe in the Adelaide Hills is a cool‑climate shiraz that focuses on elegance and depth rather than sheer power – dark‑fruited, spicy and structured, but fresh and medium‑plus in body. The 2023 expression typically shows deep red‑purple colour with mulberry, raspberry and blood‑plum fruit, graphite/rocky notes and a touch of vanilla pod, giving both richness and a distinct mineral edge. Acidity is refreshing and tannins are fine‑grained, shaping the fruit into a sleek, flowing palate that feels compact and controlled rather than heavy.

Nepenthe Shiraz is crafted to highlight Adelaide Hills’ cooler climate – pungent inky fruit, a granitic, iron‑stony character and tannins that feel like fine‑grit sandpaper, adding definition without harshness. The 2023 vintage sits comfortably in the “rich and intense” shiraz style while keeping a lift and brightness that make it both ageworthy and immediately drinkable. It’s a smart pick if you want shiraz with structure and savoury detail rather than just big sweetness and oak.

On the table, Nepenthe Shiraz 2023 is ideal with beef and venison – steak, slow‑cooked beef cheeks or venison pie – where its dark fruit, spice and mineral edge match richness and umami beautifully. It also works well with lamb, hearty stews and aged hard cheeses, thanks to its combination of depth and freshness. Serve it around 16–18°C so the aromatics open up and the tannins stay sleek.