Sanctus meaning ‘holy’, this is a wine that is as brooding as it is ethereal, combining riffs on violet, dried nori, clove, blueberry and charcuterie, with a skein of pepper-doused acidity meshed to an undertow of granitic mineral, towing it long and forceful. Sanctus is approachable young, albeit, has the necessary mettle to age gracefully for a decade or more.
'it is clear that Neal’s new domain is stamped with the postcode of ‘cult in the making’.'
- Ned Goodwin MW
Faintly smoky aromas of cassis, mulberries, dark plums and chocolate oak overlie nuances of charcuterie meats, cola and citrus zest. Medium to fullish in weight, this long, measured and translucently clear wine supports its sour-edged expression of vivacious dark fruits with a gentle, dusty spine of firmish tannins that builds strength down the palate. It’s mouthfilling and unctuously smooth, finishing with delightful drive and balance.
96 points (February 2019)
Deep red colour with a good tint of purple and a charmingly fresh, fruit-driven aroma of red-cherry and subtle spices, pepper included, the palate medium-bodied and attractive, the tannins fine and subtle yet doing their job, while the back-palate has touches of graphite and more pepper. The purity of fruit is lovely and there's really smart line and length to the palate. An elegant style of shiraz that drinks well already and should take some age well. A delicious modern Australian shiraz.
95 points, The Real Review (May 2021)
