Maturation in older American and French barrels. The wildness of the Grampians just seems to effortlessly bring a high level of attractive herbals and spice to its shiraz. This is one example, where the scent alone offers a walk through country: acacia, bracken, anise, pepper and sage. Well supported by blackberries and dark chocolate, with woodsy oak tannins. Another Chockstone shiraz to enjoy now or cellar and forget.
95 points, Wine Companion (December 2021)
Deep crimson in colour and a very well pitched Grampians Shiraz showing a fantastic mix of deep, dark mulberry and blackberry fruits but with lots of intriguing layers in the form of mushroom and beef stock with a dusting of spice – this is a more elegant but not lesser expression of the Chockstone Shiraz. Good flesh on the palate follows with a slightly soft underbelly plus gentle tannins that are already well integrated and nicely matched to stony, dark cherry fruits. There is a juiciness to the acidity which also provides freshness to a long and juicy finish. Enjoy with Beef Stroganoff.
92 points, Wine Pilot (May 2022)
The Grampians
Located in western Central Victoria, the Grampians was settled during the gold rush of the 1850’s. Indeed the vivid history of the gold rush is inextricably intertwined with the history of viticulture in the region. Seppelt at Great Western, one of the region’s iconic wineries was built at the end of the gold rush when scores of out-of-work prospectors excavated its extensive drives and cellars. The "drives" completed in 1932, stretch for three kilometres and provide perfect conditions for the maturation of sparkling wine, for which the region is well-known. The climate of the Grampians is Mediterranean and essentially cool with vineyards situated at elevations ranging from 240 to 350m. The region experiences long sunshine hours and low rainfall necessitating supplementary irrigation. Soils in the region range from weathered volcanic soils to sandy and red clay loams interspersed with ironstone. The region is suited to a diverse range of varietals including Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon but is best known for its crisp fruity Riesling and distinctive spicy peppery Shiraz.
