- Winery: Passel Estate
- Wine Region: Margaret River, Western Australia
- Variety: Shiraz
- Vintage: 2021
- Price: $42
- Find it: From the winery direct
- You’ll like this if: You’re looking for a cozy red
- Body: Full
- Mouthfeel: Round
- Taste: Elegant, soft, fresh
- Flavours: Cherry, Cocoa, Spice
- Enjoy it with: Cooler weather
- Food pairings: Roast lamb, beef ragu
Wine review: Passel Estate Shiraz 2021
I recently opened the Passel Estate Shiraz 2021, and it’s perfect for enjoying now that the weather is cooling down. The aromatics are layered and a little seductive, with red cherries, cocoa and white and black pepper leading the way. There are also beautiful hints of cloves, blackberries and a hint of tea and graphite that sounds unusual but works so well. It’s complex and inviting, and it makes you very keen to take that first sip!
On the palate, the Passel Estate Shiraz 2021 is silky, poised and just a little bit chewy in the best possible way. Ultra-fine tannins carry flavours of dark plum, black cherry and chocolate through a beautifully balanced mid-palate, with soft acidity keeping everything fresh and lively. Pink peppercorns and a lightly savoury, herby character add lovely complexity, while the French oak lends a gentle spice and roundness that supports the fruit perfectly. The finish lingers with a floral note and red currant. This is a Shiraz that delivers real joy without asking you to overthink it, and it would be absolutely stunning alongside a slow-roasted lamb or a hearty beef ragu on a cool evening.
About Passel Estate
Passel Estate is a small, single-vineyard winery in Margaret River founded by Wendy and Barry Stimpson, who were drawn to the region’s natural beauty and exceptional winegrowing reputation. After relocating to Margaret River in 2005, they established Passel Estate in 2011 on a picturesque property featuring established vines and native bushland. The vineyard, first planted in 1994, is carefully managed to prioritise quality over quantity, with thoughtful site selection, meticulous viticulture practices, and a focus on sustainability as a certified member of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia.
Under the stewardship of experienced viticulturist Tim Quinlan and highly regarded winemaker Bruce Dukes, Passel Estate produces wines that are refined, expressive, and true to place. Combining scientific rigour with artisanal craftsmanship, the team crafts small-batch wines defined by perfumed fruit, structure, and balance, making Passel Estate a distinctive and sought-after discovery within Margaret River’s prestigious wine landscape.
You can learn more on their website.
Note: This wine was sent as a sample. I was under no obligation to post about it.