Founded in 1921 by the legendary Maurice O’Shea, whose contribution to Australian wine cannot be understated. Widely recognised for setting the standard for modern Australian winemaking, his ‘fanatical perfectionism’ saw him create Mount Pleasant’s signature style of elegance, balance and exceptional longevity. For 100 years, Mount Pleasant has produced iconic, elegant and expressive wines championing the fruit and individual character of our four vineyard sites. The rare ancestral vines include some of the oldest clone plantings in the country. This makes the Old Hill vineyard, while best known for Shiraz, the oldest Pinot Noir vineyard in Australia.

Inspired by the first visit of a reigning monarch to Australia in 1954, Mount Pleasant Philip Shiraz is the personification of a distinguished family history dating back more than 130 years. Made in an authentic Hunter Shiraz style, this complex wine is crafted from small parcels cultivated in Australia’s most premium wine regions. It is medium bodied and generous with an attractive palate of fresh fruits and exhibiting the hallmarks of Hunter Valley regionality.

Fresh red and black berries coupled with spice and hints of blue fruits. An intense palate of fresh fruits with a beautifully fine tannin structure. Classically medium bodied, exhibiting true Hunter regionality with its perfectly balanced acidity and impeccable length.

It's just so nicely balanced and good to drink, and while it will age well and surely, it's a delight right now. Fresh blackberry and raspberry, a little liquorice, rose and pepper, and a coverlet of cedar/umami oak. It's a classic medium-bodied style with a little Hunter earthiness, balanced acidity, and gentle powdery tannin. It's good from front to back. Really like this. It's how you should make Hunter Shiraz. Alcohol: 13%; Price: $25; Closure: Screwcap; Rated: 93+ Points; Gary Walsh; The Wine Front