This wine has an impressively consistent track record, with 20 consecutive vintages scoring 90 points or more. 2022 was a fantastic vintage, and this release scored 91 points.
If you’re wondering about the name, it was originally intended to be more delicate and elegant and was going to be named after Bruno, the winemaker’s wife. One sip, and nothing could be further from the truth: this turned out to be big and bold, with broad shoulders and an extroverted attitude. Bruno promised to make another wine for his wife. I was fortunate enough to spend some time with Bruno over a glass of wine several years ago, and he told me this story, and many others.
The Ball Buster Shiraz is actually a blend consisting of 85% Shiraz, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 6% Merlot and is sourced from several vineyards across the Barossa AVA, selected for their rich, bold, and unique flavor profile.
Alluring aromas of blueberries, chocolate, spearmint and mocha dominate, with a promise of more to come.
The mouthfeel is big and rich, yet still approachable and appealing. Interwoven layers of blackberries, blueberries, chocolate, and coffee beans, with secondary notes of dark plums, cooking spices, and oak, with just a hint of toffee/butterscotch style sweetness on the back palate. Well structured and impressive balance, combined with ample depth and complexity to satisfy even the most finicky drinker. Excellent length on the finish.
This wine was made to pair with meat, period. A vegetarian option is an old favorite: Baba Ghanoush with Falafel and fresh Pita bread.
This has 10 years of evolving ahead of it. Drink out to 2035.
Vine to Table 