Awards, Ratings & Reviews
94/100 — Winepilot · 2021 Vintage · Tasted: Jan 2026
“We can start by declaring this sensational Coonawarra Shiraz as a serious contender for the best value red wine of the year. This is such an enjoyable wine at every stage. Fermentation began in various stainless-steel fermenters and was completed in 300-litre barrels. The wine then spent a further year and a half maturing in a mix of French and American oak hogsheads. Black with a dark, vibrant rim, this is plush, ripe and generous. The nose reveals aromas weaving through mocha, chocolate, licorice, cocoa powder and coffee beans. A seductive texture right through to fine, if slightly drying, tannins. The wine has excellent length and is finely balanced. There is certainly room for further improvement over the coming years, and it should drink well for at least the next dozen or so. A seriously good Shiraz and brilliant value.”
About This Wine
The Majella Shiraz first appeared in 1991 and has since acquired a reputation as one of Coonawarra's finest.
This deep, vibrant ruby red Shiraz with a bright crimson hue is full-bodied and concentrated, showing licorice, mocha, hazelnut tannins, plum and cherry fruit with seamlessly integrated oak.
Fermentation was initiated in static and rotary stainless steel fermenters for five days before completion in 300-litre barrels. The wine was then aged for 18 months in a blend of French and American oak hogsheads.
The 2021 Coonawarra vintage was marked by a mild and stable growing season with long ripening intervals, producing small berries with thick skins and wines of strong colour, tannin structure, and fruit expression.
Producer Notes
Colour: Deep, vibrant ruby red with a bright crimson hue.
Bouquet: Rich aromas of blackberry, plum, mocha, and spice, with hints of hazelnut and vanilla oak.
Palate: A full-bodied, concentrated style of Shiraz with intense plum and cherry fruit, layered with licorice, mocha, and hazelnut tannins. The oak flavours are seamlessly integrated, adding depth and complexity.
When to Drink: Enjoy now or cellar for 8–10 years for further complexity.
Food Match: Perfect with chargrilled steak, slow-braised beef, or aged cheddar.
Specifications
- Vintage: 2021
- Grape Variety: 100% Shiraz
- Region: Coonawarra / South Australia / Australia
- Fermentation: Fermented in static and rotary stainless steel fermenters for 5 days before completing in 300-litre barrels
- Maturation: Aged for 18 months in French and American oak hogsheads
- Winemaker: Bruce Gregory & Michael Marcus
- Drinking Window: 2025–2035
