South Australia’s Barossa Valley is one of Australia’s oldest and finest wine producing regions with Shiraz being the King of the Valley. Think Barossa, and thoughts of sumptuous big reds spring to mind. "The bigger, the better" is the motto with its deep plum, blackberry, spice flavours and amazing longevity. This StarDozen features 3 bottles each from 4 renowned Barossa producers with ratings of 94 Points or better from Australia's leading wine critics.

The StarDozen consists of the following:

3 bottles        Maverick Barossa Valley Shiraz 2021
3 bottles        Hewitson Ned & Henry's Shiraz 2020
3 bottles        Woods Crampton Mengler Hill Old Vine Barossa Shiraz 2021
3 bottles        Auld Dean Street Creek Barossa Shiraz 2018

Maverick Barossa Valley Shiraz 2021
A shiraz composed of Maverick's best single vineyards, including Ancestor vine material over 15 years old. Glossy and fleshy with pristine berry and plum fruits, layered with spice, cedar, dark chocolate and earth and dusted with violet high tones. Bright acidity pulses through the wine providing a swift cadence and there is a juicy aspect to the lingering finish that is superb. Drink to: 2035; Price: $50.00; Date Tasted: Feb 2022; Alcohol: 14.5%; Rating: 95 Points; Dave Brookes; James Halliday Wine Companion

Hewitson Ned & Henry's Shiraz 2020
Such a smooth and supple expression for the Barossa. It’s loaded with sweet ripe plummy fruit displaying a mix of chocolate and mulberry with a neat peppery spice lift. So bright and lively with palate energy that drives it effortless to a long finish. Life of the party stuff here. Drink to: 2021 - 2031; Alcohol: 14.2%; Rating: 94 Points; Ray Jordan

Woods Crampton Mengler Hill Old Vine Barossa Shiraz 2021
Sourced from two vineyards on Mengler Hill in the eastern Barossa Valley; 15% whole bunches, wild fermented and matured in large French oak (25% new). Bright red purple in the glass with fruit notes of juicy plum, mulberry and blueberries cut through with fine spice, licorice, purple flowers, roasting meats, blueberry pastries and earth. Slinky and pure in the mouth with super-fine tannins and a sprightly, super-pure mouthfeel. Tremendous value here! Drink to: 2029; Price: $25.00; Date Tasted: Oct 2022; Alcohol: 14.5%; Rating: 94 Points & Special Value Star; Dave Brooks; James Halliday Wine Companion

Auld Dean Street Creek Barossa Shiraz 2018        
Powerful and graceful at once, the wine shows dark and purple fruit richness with spicy oak, olive, dark cocoa and floral aromas on the nose. The immensely concentrated palate delivers outstanding weight and depth, wonderfully complemented by plush texture and silky tannins, making it delectably satisfying. Tasted: November 2021; Now to 2035; Price: $60.00; Rating: 96 Points; Sam Kim; Wine Orbit