The 2023 Thomas Wines Sweetwater Ridge Shiraz is sourced from a single vineyard in Belford, one of the Hunter Valley’s premier Shiraz subregions. Planted in 1998 on red-brown loam over limestone, the site is renowned for producing wines with lifted florals, fine spice and excellent structure. Andrew Thomas, widely regarded as one of the Hunter’s benchmark producers, fermented the fruit as whole berries before maturing it for 13 months in French oak, selecting only the best barrels for the final blend.
The nose is intensely aromatic, offering violets, raspberry, mulberry and black plum with hints of pepper, five spice and earthy complexity. Medium-bodied yet beautifully concentrated, the palate combines rich dark fruit with silky tannins, bright acidity and a distinctive mineral edge from the limestone soils. Toni Paterson MW awarded the wine 96 points, describing it as "absolutely extraordinary value", while Campbell Mattinson scored it 94 points for its depth, structure and length.
Ben’s Recommendation:
One of the best-value premium Shiraz releases in Australia and a standout expression of Hunter Valley terroir. Perfumed, polished and effortlessly drinkable, it pairs beautifully with lamb cutlets, grilled beef, roast duck and slow-cooked meats. Enjoy now with a decant or cellar through 2035 for added complexity.
