Head The Blonde Barossa Shiraz 2018

Winemaking and Drinking

Head Wines, an esteemed name in the Australian wine industry, has consistently produced wines that showcase the unique terroirs of the Barossa Valley. The 2018 "The Blonde" Shiraz is a prime example of the winery's commitment to quality and tradition. Established by winemaker Alex Head in 2006, Head Wines aims to produce wines that express the distinctive characteristics of Barossa Valley's sub-regions.

The name "The Blonde" is a nod to the lighter, sandy soils found in the Stone Well region of the Barossa Valley, which contribute to the wine’s elegant and perfumed profile. The 2018 vintage benefited from near-perfect growing conditions, with a long, dry season leading to exceptional fruit quality. This vintage stands out for its balance, depth, and complexity, reflecting both the terroir and the meticulous winemaking practices at Head Wines.

Tasting Notes

The 2018 "The Blonde" Shiraz is a vivid representation of Barossa Valley Shiraz, yet it carries its own unique signature. On pouring, the wine exhibits a deep, ruby-red color with a slight purple hue at the rim, indicative of its youth and vibrancy.

Nose

The nose is immediately captivating, with an array of aromatic complexities. The bouquet opens with fragrant notes of red cherries, raspberries, and a hint of blackberry. These fruit-forward aromas are beautifully interwoven with floral hints of violet and rose petals, providing a delicate and alluring perfume. As the wine breathes, it reveals deeper layers of spice—think white pepper, star anise, and a touch of clove—complemented by subtle earthy undertones and a whisper of French oak.

Palate

On the palate, "The Blonde" Shiraz is medium-bodied, showcasing a seamless balance between fruit, acidity, and tannin. The entry is smooth, with a burst of red and dark berry flavors that mirror the nose. The mid-palate is rich and complex, with fine-grained tannins providing structure and depth. There’s a notable minerality, a signature of the sandy soils, which adds an intriguing dimension to the wine’s texture.

The finish is long and elegant, with lingering notes of ripe plum, blackcurrant, and a touch of mocha, all framed by a subtle smokiness from the oak aging. The overall impression is one of refinement and finesse, making it a wine that is both approachable in its youth and promising for future cellaring.

Awards and Recognition

The 2018 "The Blonde" Shiraz has garnered significant acclaim both domestically and internationally. Among its notable achievements are:

• Gold Medal at the Barossa Wine Show 2019
• 95 Points from James Halliday’s Wine Companion, praising its elegance and complexity
• Platinum Medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2020, where it was highlighted for its outstanding expression of Barossa Valley terroir
• Top 100 Wines in Wine Spectator 2020, recognizing its superb quality and aging potential

These accolades reflect the wine’s exceptional craftsmanship and its standing as a benchmark for modern Australian Shiraz.

Vineyards

The grapes for the 2018 "The Blonde" Shiraz are sourced from carefully selected vineyards in the Stone Well region of the Barossa Valley. This area is characterized by its distinctive blonde-colored, sandy soils, which are particularly well-suited to growing premium Shiraz. The vineyards are managed with a focus on sustainable practices, ensuring the health of the vines and the quality of the fruit.

The combination of old vine Shiraz, meticulous vineyard management, and a profound understanding of the terroir results in grapes that are intensely flavored and perfectly balanced. These vineyards benefit from the region’s Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cool nights, which allow the grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavors.