At a glance

Producer

Chris Ringland Wines

Region

Barossa Valley, Australia

Grape variety

Shiraz

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$100-$150

Tasting profile

Rich dark berry fruits, black pepper, subtle earthiness, and hints of licorice underpinned by supple oak influence.

Evolution: Over time, expect tertiary notes of leather, smoked meat, and dried herbs to develop along with softening tannins.

At peak: Complex, layered palate with balanced acidity, velvety texture, and polished long finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high acidity

Tannins

Firm and finely textured

Alcohol

Approx. 15% ABV

Aging potential

20+ years in ideal cellar conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2049

Optimal window

2022 to 2052

Current status

Excellent aging potential with some bottles entering early maturity

Current condition

Youthfully concentrated with good balance; tannins and acidity still resolute

Chris Ringland's 2017 Shiraz from Barossa is crafted in a rich, concentrated style typical of the region and vintage. The wine’s firm tannins and acidity combined with high-quality fruit and oak integration provide structure for prolonged aging. Top Barossa Shiraz often benefits from a decade or more of evolution, enhancing complexity and finesse, making the drinking window extend well into the 2030s.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb chops, roasted game meats, hearty beef stews, peppered steak, aged cheddar and blue cheese, and dishes with rich sauces.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow the wine to open and soften tannins, enhancing aromatic intensity and palate smoothness.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Chris Ringland Wines emphasizes minimal intervention winemaking including careful water management, selective hand harvesting, and natural yeast fermentation. Use of precise canopy management reduces chemical inputs.

While not certified organic or biodynamic, sustainability is a stated priority with focus on ecological vineyard management and environmentally responsible winemaking practices. Export footprint is unavoidable but minimized by producer efforts.