Gartelmann Wilhelm 2022 Shiraz: A Bold Hunter Valley Red

The Gartelmann Wilhelm 2022 Shiraz is a striking tribute to Jorg Gartelmann’s Uncle Wilhelm, and it represents the essence of Hunter Valley Shiraz. Crafted from grapes grown in the Upper Hunter Valley, this wine embodies the warmth, richness, and complexity that fans of the region have come to expect. With its deep ruby garnet hue, bold fruit flavours, and smoky tannins, the 2022 Wilhelm Shiraz is a wine that delights both casual drinkers and serious collectors.

The Upper Hunter Valley: A Unique Terroir

The Upper Hunter Valley is a renowned region for producing premium Shiraz, and the vineyards that supplied the fruit for the Wilhelm Shiraz benefit from the area’s distinctive climate and soil. Warm days and cooler nights allow for an extended ripening period, which helps the grapes develop intense flavours while maintaining balanced acidity. This combination of rich fruit and refreshing acidity is the hallmark of great Hunter Valley Shiraz, and the 2022 Wilhelm is no exception.

Tasting Notes: Rich, Warm, and Inviting

The 2022 Gartelmann Wilhelm Shiraz greets the eye with a deep ruby garnet colour, signalling the wine’s intensity and depth. On the nose, you are met with rich, ripe aromas of cherries and blackberries, complemented by a subtle hint of sandalwood. This aromatic complexity hints at the wine’s bold yet refined character.

On the palate, the wine is warm and inviting, with ripe fruit flavours that are balanced by an invigorating acidity. The cherries and blackberries from the nose carry through, supported by velvet-like, smoky-wood tannins that provide structure and depth. There is a distinct Hunter Valley finish to this Shiraz, with flavours of charred berries, aniseed, and a touch of earthiness adding complexity to the wine’s lingering finish.

This wine offers a unique balance of fruit, acidity, and tannin, making it equally suitable for everyday enjoyment or for those who prefer a more structured, age-worthy Shiraz.

Food Pairing: Perfect for Hearty Meals

The 2022 Wilhelm Shiraz is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a range of dishes, particularly those that feature bold, robust flavours. Its rich fruit and smoky tannins make it a natural match for BBQ lamb or a chargrilled thick-cut steak, where the wine’s acidity can cut through the richness of the meat, while its fruit and spice complement the savoury flavours.

For a more adventurous pairing, try this Shiraz with fried halloumi drizzled with pesto, a dish that will highlight the wine’s acidity and balance its smoky undertones. The slightly salty, creamy texture of the halloumi pairs beautifully with the smooth tannins and dark berry notes of the wine.

Whether you’re enjoying a casual BBQ with friends or a hearty dinner at home, the 2022 Gartelmann Wilhelm Shirazis the perfect companion for a wide variety of meals.

Cellaring: Built to Last

While the 2022 Wilhelm Shiraz is already drinking well, it has the potential to evolve beautifully with age. With its firm structure, ripe fruit, and balanced acidity, this wine will continue to develop more complexity over the coming years.

For those with the patience to cellar it, the Wilhelm Shiraz will reach its peak drinking window from 2026 onwards, offering greater depth, with the tannins softening and the fruit becoming more nuanced. The wine’s backbone of acidity and firm tannins suggest that it will age gracefully, offering excellent drinking potential until 2030 and beyond.

A True Hunter Valley Expression

The 2022 Gartelmann Wilhelm Shiraz is a bold, characterful wine that captures the essence of Hunter Valley Shiraz. With its rich fruit, smoky tannins, and invigorating acidity, it is a wine that both entertains the palate and informs the drinker about the unique characteristics of this historic wine region. Whether enjoyed now or carefully cellared for future enjoyment, the Wilhelm Shiraz is a must-try for fans of Hunter Valley wines and those seeking a versatile red for hearty meals.

As you savour this wine, you’ll understand why it’s a standout in the Gartelmann portfolio—a wine made to honour tradition and provide enjoyment for years to come.