Brave Souls The Whaler Shiraz 2016

Another smart release from this brand new label. From two vineyards in the western ridge of the Barossa and Light Pass, it spent 18 months in barrel. Carefully coiffed, the oak a background note, the open and plush palate still quite savoury with a meaty edge. Modern Barossa Shiraz, done well, if a little simple. I can definitely see the Sons of Eden DNA in this one too – is it the plush texture? Likeable, well packaged and well priced.

Best drinking: Now to ten years easily. 17.5/20, 91/100. 14.5%, $25. Would I buy it? A few glasses at least.