Paradise IV Dardel Shiraz 2017

A masterpiece. Smoky, mineral and profoundly floral aromas of black and blue berries, paprika and exotic, musky spices, charcuterie and forest floor combine in an alluring, sensual bouquet. Explosively intense and exceptionally long, its energetic but medium-bodied palate of dark fruits, briar and tight-knit oak builds effortless depth and emphasis along its silky-fine backbone, finishing with suggestions of minerals, graphite, licorice and a racy, mouthwatering acidity. It's an exercise in finesse and restrained power; the finest release under this label and a new high water mark in Australia for northern Rhone-inspired shiraz. Tasted in February 2025, I'm no less impressed. It's truly astonishing for its deeply layered perfume and palate, where fruit, spice, oak and some developing characters have found a balance that's simply astonishing. Complete, stylish, suave and savoury.