Keith Tulloch 2022 The Kester Shiraz

In the world of Australian wine, few regions are as storied and revered as the Hunter Valley, and within this esteemed region, few winemakers are as respected as Keith Tulloch. The 2022 vintage of “The Kester” Shiraz is a testament to both the heritage of the Hunter Valley and the meticulous craftsmanship that Keith Tulloch brings to every bottle.

A Vintage to Remember: The 2022 Hunter Valley Harvest

The 2022 harvest in the Hunter Valley will be remembered as one of the greats, producing Shiraz with a unique combination of youthful charm and soft tannins. The Kester Shiraz captures this vintage beautifully, echoing the characteristics of other notable years like 2013, 2009, and 1999. These were years when the Hunter Valley produced medium-bodied wines that combined fruit intensity with a refined elegance—qualities that are at the heart of The Kester.

Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavours and Aromas

The 2022 Kester Shiraz is a wine that speaks of place and precision. On the nose, it presents a vibrant bouquet of primary fruit aromas—raspberry, blueberry, and cherry—each note distinct yet harmoniously intertwined. These fruit notes are complemented by subtle hints of juniper and blood orange, creating a complex aromatic profile that is both inviting and intriguing.

As the wine opens up, more delicate perfumes emerge—pressed flowers, garden herbs, and a finer-leaf bouquet of lavender and fresh clove. This complexity on the nose is a precursor to a palate that is equally sophisticated.

On the palate, The Kester is all about balance and finesse. The blue-fruit roundness provides a full, concentrated flavour, yet there’s a pastille-like elegance that keeps the wine light on its feet. The texture is velvety, a seamless integration of pure fruit focus and attractive lift. This is a Shiraz that doesn’t rely on power alone; it’s the subtleties, the fine sappy hints of red-briar berry and pomegranate, that make it truly exceptional.

The wine’s maturation in large French oak Foudre adds another layer of complexity. The oak imparts a gentle spiciness with fine detail, complementing the sandy and subtle tannins. There’s a polish to the wine—notes of fine mocha and soft chocolate—that rounds out the finish, which is deliciously long and harmonious.

A Wine for the Ages

The Kester Shiraz is designed to age gracefully, with the potential to evolve beautifully over the next two decades. While it is already showing well in its youth, with decanting recommended if enjoyed within the first five years, it will reach its peak between 2029 and 2033. For those with the patience to cellar this wine, it promises to deliver a drinking experience that is both complex and deeply satisfying well into 2040 and beyond.

Conclusion: A Hunter Valley Icon

The Keith Tulloch 2022 The Kester Shiraz is more than just a wine; it is a representation of the Hunter Valley’s unique terroir and Keith Tulloch’s dedication to his craft. With its combination of vibrant fruit, elegant structure, and remarkable ageing potential, The Kester is a wine that informs, educates, and entertains—offering a glimpse into the very best that the Hunter Valley has to offer.

For those who seek a Shiraz that embodies the essence of the Hunter Valley, The Kester is a must-have. It’s a wine that will not only enhance your collection but also provide countless moments of enjoyment as it matures over the years.