Sidewood Shiraz 2021

Winery Background and History

Sidewood Estate, located in the cool-climate Adelaide Hills of South Australia, was acquired by Owen and Cassandra Inglis in 2004. Positioned at higher elevations, the estate combines pristine terroir with modern viticulture and a passion for elegant, expressive wines that showcase the region’s subtlety.

Producer and Wine Maker

Led by award-winning winemaker Darryl Catlin, Sidewood embraces precision and finesse. Catlin’s background at leading Australian wineries (including Penfolds and Shaw & Smith) informs the estate’s approach: refined, balanced, and terroir-driven Shiraz. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes are sourced from vineyards in the Adelaide Hills—cool, elevated, and highly regarded for producing Shiraz with dark fruit intensity, aromatic spice, and structural elegance. The altitude and climatic variation, including cool night temperatures, help preserve balanced acidity and freshness. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

While specific vinification details for the 2021 are limited, Nested sources note the wine ages in French oak for approximately 18 months, adding depth and subtle oaky complexity. 

Tasting notes

A fragrant and elegant Shiraz, it reveals aromas of dark cherry, dark berries, and delicate white pepper spice. The palate is medium-bodied and smooth, featuring ripe dark fruits, licorice, and cracked pepper, culminating in a silky dark-chocolate-tinged finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This versatile red pairs beautifully with game meats—roast pheasant, marinated grilled birds—or classic comfort dishes such as pepperoni pizza or chargrilled eggplant. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve in a large red wine glass at around 16–18 °C. A brief decant can enhance aromatics and soften tannins. (Best-practice recommendation based on style—no direct source.)

Storage and Aging Potential

Best enjoyed now through 2028, with potential to evolve and retain structure and freshness over the next several years. 

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Shiraz (Syrah)—standard for sidewood’s red bottlings. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 14.5% ABV. 

Scores (sorted by highest to lowest)

• 94 – Natalie MacLean (Community Score) 

• 92 – Wine Enthusiast (Christina Pickard)