Willows Bonesetter Shiraz 2021

Willows is a boutique winery in the Barossa Valley, known for crafting bold, expressive Shiraz that balances power with elegance. The 2021 vintage experienced warm days and cool nights, producing deeply concentrated fruit with fine tannins and vibrant acidity.

The Bonesetter Shiraz comes from low-yielding, old-vine blocks planted on red clay-loam soils. Hand-picked fruit was fermented in small open-top fermenters, with gentle extraction to preserve aromatic intensity. The wine matured for 18 months in a combination of new and seasoned French oak barrels, adding structure and subtle complexity.

Appearance Deep, inky ruby with garnet reflections. The wine’s opacity and dense colour suggest full-bodied concentration. Slow-moving, well-defined legs indicate substantial structure and excellent ageing potential.

Aroma Dark plum, blackberry, and cassis, layered with hints of chocolate, pepper, and subtle cedar. The oak integration is seamless, enhancing the richness of the fruit.

Taste Full-bodied and plush, with intense dark fruits, fine-grained tannins, and balanced acidity. Notes of spice, cocoa, and a touch of leather create a layered, complex palate.

Finish Long and persistent, with a lingering mix of dark fruit, spice, and fine tannin that underscores the wine’s power and elegance.

Food Pairing Grilled lamb cutlets with rosemary and garlic complement the richness and spice. Slow-cooked beef cheeks highlight the wine’s plush texture and depth of flavour.