Ken Gargett (Winepilot) – The Cutlass Shiraz 2023

Ken Gargett (Winepilot) – The Cutlass Shiraz 2023

Adelaide Hills, 92pts

From a single vineyard in the Woodside sub-region, fermentation was in two batches – the first saw half whole bunches with crushed berries, while the second was half whole berries. Maturation was in French oak, 35% of it new.The colour here is an inky darkness. A savoury and complex style which is fresh and focused, there are notes of blackberries, dried herbs, aniseed, soy, bay leaves, leather, delicatessen meats, a touch of cassis and a flick of well-integrated oak all present. A wine of medium length with good grip, it should provide pleasure over the next six to eight years.

Reviewed: August 2025