Phase Three Wines Contorno Alto Fortified Shiraz 2023

Phase Three Wines Contorno Alto Fortified Shiraz 2023

Cellar or drinkRed wineAustraliaCorkNew release

Phase Three Wines is bringing something exciting to the table with their 2023 Contorno Alto Fortified Shiraz. Reflective of the vintage ports Portugal is known for, this one is fruit-driven and not overly sweet, with a warm, spirity finish and fresh, vibrant character. The idea for this wine came late in the vintage when they discovered a parcel of Shiraz from a vineyard in High Eden that they had admired for years. After a bit of scrambling to find the right spirit, they were set to make their vision a reality. The fruit, harvested late in the season under cool conditions, was modest in alcohol at 13 Baume, but that only added to the character of the wine. It's incredibly approachable now, but with the potential to age beautifully for years to come. With only 388 bottles produced, this unique and limited wine has already been a hit at their cellar door, making it a must-try for anyone looking for something new in the fortified wine world.

Drink window,2024 to 2035
Historical performance*, New release
Type,Red wine
Varietals,Fortified Shiraz
Vintage,2023
ABV,19%
Country,Australia
Region,South Australia
Sub region,Eden Valley
Bottle size,750ml
Bottle closure,Cork

*10-year performance (or since release). As at Jan 2025
Data source: WineSearcher
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$49.00

From the winemaker

What the maker says about this wine 👇

Making a fortified wine has always had appeal. Late in the vintage we landed a parcel of Shiraz from High Eden from a contour vineyard I had driven past many times to admire. We then scrambled to organize some fine spirit to put our plan to action. Due to the very cool vintage conditions the fruit was harvested very late in the season and only at a modest 13 Baume. It was de-stemmed and went through a low & slow open fermentation then eventually fortified on skins. Soon after basket Pressed to settle in tank. Then put to a well-seasoned Hogs Head for 17 months. 388 Bottles filled -750ml

Its a fruit driven style, not overly sweet, spirity warmth, fresh, clean and vibrant. Very approachable young and will lay down for many years. Thus far it has been very well received when people visit our cellar door!