Head Wines The Contrarian Shiraz 2021

"Each vintage I like to express the Barossa in a contrary manner. ‘The Contrarian’ is my indulgent, creative winemaking outlet and challenges traditional concepts around Barossan Shiraz. We source Shiraz from vineyards in the Eden Valley which develop flavour at lower than usual alcohols and show ripeness in their stems too. We use a different medium for fermentation in cement; which holds the acidity and tannins in a fresher light. We mature (instead of age) the wine in oak that is 10 times larger than a traditional barrel and bottle a little earlier too. We love what we see in this expression of the Barossa and feel it is a style worthy of your table." Alex Head - Winemaker

"Plenty to like here in what is a modern Barossan style with 25% whole bunch fruit softened by 18 months aging in older, ex Chardonnay oak. It opens up beautifully, no doubt thanks to the generosity of the 2021 vintage, with roasted meat and spice aromas underpinned by tar, liquorice and juicy black cherry fruits. It’s then plush and velvety with stalky tannins rising up to provide backbone to a pleasing finish. Worth letting this wine settle for a couple of years for those tannins to better integrate."  Angus Hughson