Bondar Violet Hour Shiraz 2023

Bondar Violet Hour Shiraz is a perfumed McLaren Vale Shiraz from the region's coolest season in decades.

The third La Niña year in a row turned out cooler than anything the district had seen for a long time, and low yields with a late harvest suited Andre Bondar's preference for perfume over power — the fruit hung a long time, built flavour, and held a high, fresh acid line. Ten blocks of the Rayner vineyard go into the blend, their soils ranging from deep sand with ironstone to clay over limestone, with some Shiraz vines reaching seventy years. Whole-bunch and destemmed parcels are handled separately, skin time varies by block, and only seasoned oak is used, usually ten months.

Fragrant and spice-led, dark berries underneath, with a woodsy warmth and violet lift over the top. Plump through the middle, the structure trim and the finish long and clean. Serve at 16 degrees. Roast duck, lamb meatballs, or a pepper-crusted steak.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.