Howard Park 'Flint Rock' Shiraz, Great Southern, Australia

Dark fruit, exotic spice, and distinctive mineral character define Howard Park 'Flint Rock' Shiraz, Great Southern, Australia 2022. Sourced from the cool-climate Frankland River subregion of Western Australia's Great Southern, this expressive Shiraz combines concentrated blackberry and cherry flavors with the freshness and savory complexity that distinguish the region from Australia's warmer wine-growing areas. Aged for 15 months in predominantly seasoned French oak, the 2022 vintage delivers impressive richness without sacrificing elegance, earning 94 points from Australian wine critic Ray Jordan.

Product Details:

• Grapes: 100% Shiraz
• Vineyard Source: Frankland River vineyards
• Soil: Lateritic gravel and sandy loams
• Fermentation: Small open-vat fermenters with gentle cap management
• Whole-Bunch Fermentation: Up to 15% whole bunches in selected parcels
• Aging: 15 months in predominantly seasoned French oak barrels
• pH: 3.38
• Total Acidity: 5.98 g/L
• Residual Sugar: 0.55 g/L
• ABV: 14.5%
• Producer: Howard Park Wines
• Owners: Burch family, led by Jeff and Amy Burch
• Chief Winemaker: Nic Bowen
• Vintage: 2022

Sensory Description:

Deep garnet in color, with expressive aromas of black cherry, blueberry, and blackberry layered with violet, clove, and crushed peppercorn. The palate is concentrated yet beautifully balanced, revealing ripe dark berries, subtle cocoa, and a savory mineral character reminiscent of wet slate. Supple fruit and fine, grippy tannins provide structure, while bright acidity introduces a refreshing blood-orange nuance. Restrained French oak contributes delicate char and woodsy spice, leading to a long, elegant finish.

Awards & Accolades:

• Score: 94 Points, Ray Jordan
• Score: 92 Points, James Halliday, as reported by Winebow

Producer’s Background:

Established in 1986 by founding winemaker John Wade, Howard Park became one of Western Australia's pioneering premium wine producers. Jeff and Amy Burch joined the venture in 1993 and assumed full ownership in 1998, building a family-owned winery with an enduring commitment to the distinct growing conditions of Margaret River and the Great Southern. Today, chief winemaker Nic Bowen, who joined in 2021, continues that regional focus. The Flint Rock range takes its name from the mineral structure and savory elegance associated with Great Southern wines. The 2022 growing season brought a wet winter and delayed spring, reducing yields, followed by dry summer weather and favorable ripening conditions that produced fruit with excellent balance.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at approximately 60–65°F (16–18°C) in a generous red wine glass, allowing time for the wine's dark fruit and spice aromatics to develop. Pair with grilled lamb, slow-roasted beef, smoked brisket, or mushroom-rich dishes. For a distinctive alternative, try a Spanish potato and chorizo omelette, a pairing suggested by the producer's U.S. importer. Enjoy now for its vibrant fruit and supple texture, or cellar under suitable conditions for up to five years from the 2022 vintage, as recommended by Howard Park.