Thomas Wines Elenay Shiraz 2013

Ah Thommo, always the larrikin. This is eloquently labelled as ‘Elenay’ but that’s just an alternative way of describing a blend that the winery is tagged as ‘L & A’ – for Lips and Assholes. Lips and assholes being the barrels that don’t fit the Sweetwater or Kiss wines.

Bright mauve red, this more savoury and tannic than Sweetwater, yet also without that berry richness either. Indeed, it’s even a little sullen and the oak seems to hide the generosity. It’s a curious wine really that doesn’t seem to fit anywhere. There are quality bits and pieces, but it’s just not together yet. Hold.

Details: 13.5%, Screwcap, $45
Tasted: May 2015 (sample)
Best drinking: 2019-2030
Score: 17.5/20, 91/100+
Would I buy it? Not yet.
Buy online: Thomas Wines website

Help keep this site paywall free – donate here

Wine

Andrew Graham
Almost 25 years ago I started working in a small bottleshop, largely to buy cheap beer. There, I met my first two loves - wine and craft beer, and they took over my life. Two decades later and I spend my days as a journalist, buyer, wine show judge, marketer and drinks industry consultant.

The Australian wines I admired in March (with plenty $50 or less)

March 24, 2026

Alll the ridicously great wines I loved at Barcelona Wine Week 2026

February 13, 2026

Let’s do this 2026 thing: more Windows Estate glory + 25 more quality white wines

January 30, 2026

Thomas Wines Elenay Shiraz 2013