Wakefield Estate Shiraz 2022

Winery Background and History

Taylors Wines (also known as Wakefield in some markets) was founded in 1969 in Clare Valley, South Australia, by Bill Taylor and his sons. The “Estate Label” range was among their earliest releases (Cabernet and Shiraz being foundational to the estate) and reflects the family’s philosophy of controlling vineyard, winery, and bottling on site.  Over the decades, they have grown vineyard holdings, refined winemaking, and established Clare Valley as a signature region for both red and white varietals.

Producer and Wine Maker

The producer is Taylors Wines (Wakefield in the Northern Hemisphere). Their winemaking team sources fruit from estate vineyards and selected external sites (e.g. Limestone Coast) to underpin the Estate Shiraz.  They oversee picking, fermentation, oak maturation and blending to ensure the wine balances richness, varietal character, and structural finesse.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Fruit for this wine is sourced primarily from Clare Valley, with possible contributions from Limestone Coast.  Clare Valley is known for warm days and cool nights, producing large diurnal shifts that help retain acidity and aromatic complexity in reds. Soils are typically well-drained, with red loam over limestone (“terra rossa”) in many parcels. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are handpicked at optimal ripeness. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel with managed extraction. The wine is matured in oak barrels (both new and used) for a period (not always publicly disclosed, but consistent with their style) to integrate oak influence without overpowering fruit.  Barrel aging helps round tannins and add complexity.

Tasting Notes

Colour: dusty ruby. Aromas and flavors include red cherry, cherry BBQ sauce, mint, tar, tea, and peppered bacon, with overtones of leather and green herbs.  The palate is medium-bodied, lively, with firm tannins and a warming finish. The fruit & savory interplay gives it both richness and drinkability.

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs well with grilled meats (lamb, beef), barbecued pork, game dishes, and hearty stews. The savory and peppery notes match well with spice, herbs (rosemary, thyme), and dishes with smoky or charred elements.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at about 16-18 °C. Use a large red wine glass to allow aromas to open. Decanting for 20-30 minutes is beneficial to soften oak influence and let the wine breathe. Once opened, best consumed over 1-2 days.

Storage and Aging Potential

This wine is approachable now but has capacity to age. Under good cellar conditions (stable ~12-14 °C, moderate humidity, darkness), it can evolve over 5-7 years. Over time, tertiary notes (leather, earth, spice) may emerge while fruit integrates with oak.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100 % Shiraz

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5 % 

Scores

• Tastings.com: 91 / 100