At a glance

Producer

Tahbilk

Region

Nagambie Lakes, Victoria, Australia

Grape variety

Shiraz

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$25-$35

Tasting profile

Shows intense blackberry, spice, and pepper with hints of eucalyptus and supple oak influence.

Evolution: With age, develops layered complexity including leather, tobacco, and earthiness while fruit softens.

At peak: Expect rich savory depth with balanced acidity and silky tannins at peak maturity.

Structure

Acidity

Medium acidity providing freshness

Tannins

Medium to firm, ripe and supple

Alcohol

13.5%-14% typical of Australian Shiraz

Aging potential

8-12 years with potential for complexity development

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2030

Optimal window

2022 to 2032

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

The wine shows youthful vibrant fruit tempered by developing earthy and savory notes typical of old vine Shiraz from Nagambie.

The 2016 vintage at Tahbilk was good, producing fruit of ripe concentration and moderate acidity, supporting a drinking window extending a decade or more. The old vine Shiraz from Nagambie Lakes is known for structured tannins and balance, allowing the wine to evolve gracefully over 8-12 years, reaching peak complexity about 7-10 years post vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled and roasted red meats, lamb, hearty stews, aged cheeses, and dishes with Mediterranean herbs.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To aerate and reveal the full aromatic complexity and to soften tannins.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Tahbilk employs sustainable farming practices including water conservation, integrated pest management, minimal chemical use, and energy-efficient winery operations. Packaging uses lightweight bottles partially made from recycled glass.

Tahbilk’s long-standing commitment to sustainable viticulture combined with environmentally conscious winery practices and local sourcing help reduce overall environmental impact. While export logistics add carbon emissions, the producer’s internal water and energy savings and certification signal strong sustainability performance.