Gladiator McLaren Vale Shiraz 2022

Gladiator McLaren Vale Shiraz 2022 ($228) – Definitely a wine Russell Crowe might enjoy. From 80-year-old vines, fermentation is with native yeasts over a period of three weeks. Maturation is for three years in a mix of new French and American oak hogsheads. Under Diam. 

A deep dark maroon hue, the style here is a touch savoury, with notes of mushrooms and warm soil. These are matched by aromas of chocolate, mocha, vanilla, cassis and quality oak. Soft and supple in texture, the wine is of medium length and finishes with fine tannins. There is good balance evident and perhaps most importantly, the wine is simply delicious. A touch more length might take it to the next level, but it is already cracking stuff. Enjoy it over the next fifteen years. 94.