At a glance

Producer

Best's Great Western

Region

Victoria, Australia

Grape variety

Shiraz

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$25-$40

Tasting profile

Intense dark berry fruits, black pepper spice, some hints of leather and licorice with oak influence.

Evolution: Will develop savory, earthy, and more complex tertiary notes over the next 5-10 years.

At peak: Rich layers of dark fruit, mocha, leather, and balanced oak with silky tannin texture.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to balanced, providing freshness

Tannins

Firm and well-integrated

Alcohol

Approx. 14.5%

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage, suitable for medium-term cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2030

Optimal window

2023 to 2032

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

The wine is showing good primary dark fruit with developing complexity and supple tannins.

2017 was a very good vintage in Great Western with balanced ripening conditions allowing for a Shiraz with concentration and freshness, underpinning a drinking window extending into early 2030s.

Food pairing

Excellent with roasted and grilled red meats, hearty stews, aged hard cheeses, and dishes with black pepper or smoky spices.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — Helps soften tannins and open up aromatics.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Utilizes integrated pest management, water conservation techniques, and solar energy in winery operations.

Best's Great Western demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through efficient resource use and reduced chemical inputs, though lacks official organic or biodynamic certification. Their use of solar power and water conservation helps lower environmental impact. As a regional producer, the carbon footprint is moderate with some impacts from exports.