Originally established in the 1860s by one of Melbourne's founding fathers, James Johnston, Craiglee Vineyard was absent from the Australian wine landscape until it was replanted in 1976 by an enthusiastic agricultural science graduate called Pat Carmody. Now one of Australia's most highly regarded and awarded wineries, Craiglee is still run with the loving attention of Pat and Dianne Carmody with the occasional input of their sons.

A more open weave, supple release strong in raspberry, sweet earth, blackberries on brambles, fennel, pleasing eucalyptus notes with some judicious clove-woody seasoning. Perfume and flavours match. Shimmers and shines in the palate, glossy texture met with a wrap of light, lacy tannins. Almost refreshing in acidity too, so bright, lively and cool. You’d whisper ‘pinosity’ here. A little out of the box for Craiglee in ‘style’, but delightful, so excellent to drink, fine in detail, precise as always. Thanks heaps. Tasted: Aug 2021; Alcohol: 13.5%; Price: $60.00; Closure: Screwcap; Drink: 2021-2040; Rated: 94 Points; Mike Bennie; The Wine Front

Pure, unadulterated Craiglee shiraz. Nothing like it. It's the fragrance, the confluence of dark and red fruit, the grind of black pepper, the thyme and its savoury nature. It retains a certain elegance and length across the more medium-bodied palate. Fresh acidity and grainy tannins neatly in tow. Lovely now, even better in years to come. Date: Feb 2021; Alcohol: 13.5%; Price: $60.00; Drink by: 2032; Rating: 95 Points; James Halliday Wine Companion