Thomas Wines Elenay Shiraz 2018

Thomas Wines Elenay Shiraz is a barrel-selection Hunter Valley Shiraz drawn from several vineyard parcels.

The label started by accident in 2011. A few barrels earmarked for the premium Kiss Shiraz did not fit the style, so they were blended with some Sweetwater Shiraz outliers, and the result was popular enough that Andrew Thomas kept making it. Each year he picks barrels from his Shiraz parcels to build a premium Hunter expression; the vineyard mix changes but the style does not, with good French oak playing an important part while the wine is young. The 2018 draws newer barrels from four parcels: Kiss at 66 per cent, Belford at 14, Cote d'Or at 12 and Dam Block at eight.

Medium to full-bodied and firmly Hunter in character: dark plum, earth, leather and a peppery savour, with fine oak-derived spice. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted. It suits a slow-cooked beef brisket, lamb shanks or a mushroom and barley risotto.

*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.