The 2021 Laughing Jack Moppa Hill Block 6 Shiraz is sourced from a six-acre single vineyard on the eastern slopes of Moppa Hill in the northern Barossa. Planted on ancient iron-rich sandy soils over orange clay, this low-yielding site consistently produces wines of depth, purity and complexity. Crafted by Shawn Kalleske, the wine was basket pressed and matured for 24 months in French oak before bottling unfined and unfiltered.
The nose is intensely aromatic, showing blackberry, black cherry and plum layered with star anise, peppercorn, dark chocolate and earthy spice. Rich and concentrated on the palate, it delivers powerful dark fruit flavours balanced by fresh acidity and fine chocolatey tannins. Despite its intensity, the wine remains poised and elegant, finishing long and complex. Dave Brookes awarded the wine 95 points, praising its fruit density, structure and length.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A serious single-vineyard Barossa Shiraz that combines power with remarkable refinement. The depth of fruit and spice makes it a perfect match for grilled ribeye, slow-cooked lamb shoulder, beef short ribs or game dishes. Drinking beautifully now with a decant, but it has the structure to evolve through 2038 and beyond.
