2022 Brave Souls The Whaler Shiraz

The Whaler is a blend of Barossa Valley (75%) and Eden Valley (25%) fruit. The Barossa Valley vineyard is situated on the heavy red soils of the warm western ridge. Grapes from the cooler Eden Valley are sourced from two vineyards situated at either end of the valley, in Moculta and Craneford.
The Barossa Valley component providing fleshy dark berry fruit characters and density, while the Eden Valley component contributes elegance and bright wild berry fruited aromatic lift. A small percentage of whole bunch fruit was included in the ferment with maturation taking place in a mix of new and seasoned hogsheads for a period of 14 months.

Powerful fruits, glossy tannins and a plush texture make for an incredibly seductive Barossa Shiraz.

Midnight black core with a dark red black tinged hue. Engaging the olfactory senses are elevated aromatics of dark plum, liquorice and blackberry which are intertwined with hints of dried herbs, vanillin cedar and peppered fennel. Rich, plush and sumptuous, the incredibly seductive palate is flooded with a tidal wave of dark plum, liquorice and blackberry fruits. Evolving across the underbelly are vanillin cedar, fennel, delicate scorched earth and blackpeper elements. Possessing undeniable power and silky smooth tannins it finishes long, super succulent and peppery. A triumphant return to top form for the Whaler.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews....
Here's a juicy, purpley-splashed little wine with a thick swell of beautifully ripe plum, blueberry and boysenberry fruits. It sports some gorgeous floral tones – I'm thinking jasmine, citrus blossom and dragonfruit flowers – along with notes of blueberry pie, ironstone, a touch of pepper and charcuterie. It's pretty as a picture and a great role model for contemporary Barossa shiraz at a super-sharp price. Great joyful, bouncy drinking. Drink by 2030.
95 points
Dave Brookes - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion