From a prolific sixth generation Barossa Valley grape growing family, Dan Standish knows a thing or two about vines and the vineyards of the region. Harvest stints in California’s Napa and Sonoma valleys, La Rioja and Yecla in Spain coupled with extensive travel and study of France’s Rhône Valley reinforce his intricate local knowledge with a diverse international bent. The Standish Wine Company vintage cellar and barrel store is intimately designed to fully embrace and nurture the individuality afforded by clone, soil and aspect. Tiny open top oak fermentation vats allow single parcels – even single rows – to be vinified separately, enhancing the intricate personality of each specific soil profile.

Mocha and caramel here, quite a lot of oak, blackberry, pepper and dried herbs. Purple fruit, drying grainy tannin, mocha with an orange tang, feels quite sooty, and the finish has espresso coffee with a clip of bitterness. Grainy feel. Solid length. May come good. Date: Jun 2023; Alcohol: 14.9%; Closure: Cork; Drink: 2025-2040; Rated: 91+ Points; Gary Walsh; The Wine Front

A very beefy, meaty release adorned with lots of tobacco and sandalwood, garam masala spice, dark plum, cola, stewed berries and chewy, dusty tannin in tow. It feels a little drying and firm in its way. Good intensity and concentration here, a fuller figured expression and big impact for those seeking it, but perhaps missing the finesse that often comes with Standish’s releases. The veering into dry-reddy territory is the quibble. Date: Jun 2023; Alcohol: 14.9%; Closure: Cork; Drink: 2025-2040; Rated: 92 Points; Mike Bennie; The Wine Front