This wine is part of Waitrose’s premium No.1 range, aimed at those seeking standout quality. Having been impressed by the No.1 La Val Albariño and Margaux, I had high hopes for this Shiraz, which boasts a 2025 IWC Silver medal and a 93-point rating. It’s produced by the seventh-generation Lindner family and aged in a mix of French and American oak. The 2021 vintage comes in at 15% ABV.
As soon as the cap is opened, the aroma escapes from the neck of the bottle, full of ripe red fruit. In the glass, there’s a slightly browning edge to the colour, suggesting a touch of maturity. The initial impression is highly aromatic, with red fruit and a hint of gentle oak leading the way. On tasting, it reveals a dry, fruit-driven style, with dark cherries taking centre stage. It avoids the jammy character often associated with older styles of Barossa Shiraz and instead feels fuller and more focused. The fruit is intense and there’s a clear influence from the oak and spice that emerges towards the finish. It’s bold and rich, as the label promises, with light tannins providing structure without any harshness.
Some reviews on the Waitrose site mention they were expecting a sweeter, more old-fashioned style of Barossa Shiraz, but this follows the more modern trend of a drier, more balanced expression. At £10.25 on offer, down from £14.00, it feels like excellent value for money and tastes as though it should cost significantly more.
