2023 Howard Park Leston Shiraz 750ml

The 2023 Howard Park Leston Shiraz is a benchmark expression of cool-climate Western Australian Shiraz, showcasing elegance, purity, and site transparency rather than sheer power. Produced by Howard Park, the Leston range represents the estate’s most refined, regionally expressive wines, drawing on decades of vineyard experience across Margaret River and the Great Southern. Fruit for the 2023 vintage was sourced from carefully selected, low-yielding vineyard parcels, chosen for their ability to deliver flavour concentration while retaining natural acidity. The growing season was long and mild, allowing for slow, even ripening—ideal conditions for preserving aromatic detail and structural balance. In the winery, the Shiraz underwent small-batch fermentation, with gentle extraction techniques employed to build texture without over-emphasising tannin. Extended maceration enhanced depth and complexity, while preserving freshness and varietal definition. Maturation took place in French oak barriques, a portion of which were new, over approximately 12–14 months, adding subtle spice, savoury nuance, and structural polish without masking the fruit. The result is a finely detailed Shiraz with aromas of black cherry, blackberry, cracked pepper, and violets, supported by hints of dark chocolate, clove, and cedar. The palate is medium-bodied yet intense, showing layered dark fruit, supple tannins, and a long, mineral-driven finish. Oak is seamlessly integrated, contributing complexity rather than dominance. Approachable in its youth with decanting, the 2023 Leston Shiraz also offers excellent cellaring potential, rewarding patience over the next 8–15 years as secondary notes of earth, spice, and savoury depth continue to evolve. A refined, modern Australian Shiraz—ideal for collectors seeking balance, precision, and a true sense of place.