2023 Head Wines The Brunette Shiraz

"The Brunette" is Alex Head’s ode to the darker, more structural side of Barossa Shiraz. While the specific vineyard source changes to suit the profile each year, the 2023 release hails from a truly special site: the historic Fechner vineyard near Moculta in the Eden Valley, planted all the way back in 1908.

Sitting at 320m altitude on deep red clays mixed with ironstone, limestone and scattered quartz, this is considered one of the warmest pockets of the Eden Valley. It delivers exactly what Alex looks for in this label: power, density, and savoury depth, distinct from the more perfumed "Blonde" release.

It is brooding and intense, pouring a dark purple and offering up aromas of savoury black fruits, dried herbs, and graphite. The ancient vines provide a natural concentration that translates into fine, firm tannins and serious longevity. With only 73 dozen produced, this is a rare, muscular expression of the region that balances richness with Alex’s signature definition.

97 points
"It's textural and powerful, dark and brooding with a visceral sensation to its character. Wonderful length, backed by iron-fist-in-velvet-glove style tannins. This is a wine that demands all your attention."
- Stuart Knox (The Real Review)