2022 Koomilya GT Block Shiraz

The GT Block is always the outlier of the Koomilya trio – a little more lifted, a little more fragrant – and in 2022 it has delivered something really special. The block takes its name from the vines’ quirky past life as Gewürztraminer before being grafted to Shiraz back in the 70s. Sitting on slaty siltstone scattered with ironstone, and facing south in its own quiet corner of the vineyard, it consistently produces a style that’s brighter and more aromatic than its siblings.

2022’s long, cool season gave the fruit time to build layers of tannin and complexity without ever tipping into heaviness. It’s savoury and structured, yes, but also alive with red fruits, spice and a kind of mineral freshness that seems to hum through all of Pannell’s Koomilya wines. As always, it was hand-harvested, fermented with native yeast and a portion of whole berries, and raised in large old oak to let the vineyard speak for itself.

Made in very small quantities, the GT Block is a fascinating expression of McLaren Vale Shiraz – perfumed, detailed and full of energy – and a reminder of just how distinctive this site really is.

97 points
"Tannins are expertly extracted and this is made for the long haul. Outstanding."
- Marcus Ellis (Halliday Wine Companion)