Best's 2017 LSV Shiraz (Great Western)

From one of Australia's most historic wineries in western Victoria, this Shiraz comes from the estate's top elevated vineyards and is cofermented with a small amount of Viognier. Once the wine gets air, a myriad of aromas rush from the glass: tangy purple and blue fruit still on the bush, cracked pepper, drying roses and orange peels, olives, earthy spice and damp stone minerals. The palate lives up to the nose. It crackles with acidity and silky, juicy fruit, knitted together with savory, sandy textured tannins. A tightrope walk of power and elegance, and a stellar example of cool-climate Aussie Shiraz. Christina Pickard