The 2010 Rusden Sandscrub Shiraz is an iconic Barossa Valley Shiraz sourced from the estate's oldest vineyard in Vine Vale, where deep sandy soils over red clay produce fruit of remarkable concentration and longevity. Hand-picked, open fermented and matured for four years in 100% new French oak before a further four years of bottle ageing, this is a meticulously crafted wine built for extended cellaring. The nose is deeply complex with aromas of dark berries, charred meats, cocoa and warm spice, layered with notes of anise, cedar and subtle savoury oak.
On the palate, it is full-bodied, rich and beautifully integrated, delivering concentrated flavours of blackberry, black cherry and dark plum alongside liquorice, wood spice and fine cocoa. Powerful yet composed, its silky tannins, vibrant acidity and exceptional oak integration create remarkable balance and length. With over a decade of maturation already behind it, the wine is drinking superbly now while retaining the structure to continue evolving for another 15–20 years.
Ben's Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an exceptional choice for collectors and lovers of world-class Barossa Shiraz seeking depth, complexity and outstanding ageing potential. Pair it with premium wagyu beef, slow-roasted lamb shoulder, venison, braised beef cheeks or aged hard cheeses. Decant for at least 90 minutes before serving to allow its layered aromas and flavours to fully unfold, or cellar confidently as this remarkable wine continues to develop over the coming decades.
