Description
The 2022 Seppeltsfield Vineyard Shiraz is a masterclass in regional precision from Curator Wine Co. Sourced from a single, sustainably farmed site in the historic Seppeltsfield sub-region of the Barossa Valley, this wine highlights the “iron fist in a velvet glove” character for which this area is famed.
Under the guidance of winemaker Tom White, this Shiraz balances the natural opulence of old-vine fruit with a sophisticated, structural elegance.
The Terroir: Seppeltsfield’s Red Earth
The Seppeltsfield sub-region is defined by its ancient, iron-rich red clay over limestone. These “heavy” soils produce fruit with incredible concentration and a distinctively savory, earthy undertone.
Microclimate: The 2022 season provided a cooler-than-average ripening period, allowing for a slow accumulation of flavor and the retention of vibrant natural acidity.
Vine Age: Sourced from established vines that have dug deep into the Barossa subsoil, resulting in small berries with thick skins and intense aromatic complexity.
The Craft: Minimal Intervention, Maximum Expression
Following the Curator Wine Co philosophy of minimal intervention, this Shiraz was crafted to let the vineyard speak for itself.
Fermentation: Hand-harvested and naturally fermented in small open-top fermenters.
Maturation: Aged in a combination of seasoned French oak puncheons and hogsheads. The use of older wood ensures that the spicy, dark-fruit profile of the Shiraz remains the protagonist, rather than being overshadowed by heavy toast.
Pure & Vegan: Bottled without fining or filtration, preserving the natural texture and “raw” energy of the wine.
The Appearance: A deep, concentrated purple with a vibrant magenta rim.
The Nose: High-toned aromatics of blood plum, blackberry, and dried violets, underscored by classic Seppeltsfield notes of cocoa powder, ironstone, and cracked black pepper.
The Palate: Full-bodied yet remarkably fluid. It leads with plush layers of dark forest fruits and silken chocolate, supported by fine-grained, architectural tannins.
The Finish: Long and resonant, tapering into a refreshing mineral “snap” and a lingering hint of savory spice.
Tasting Notes
James Suckling 95
"An exceptional expression from the Western Ridge. This Seppeltsfield Shiraz is remarkably expressive, showing off the ironstone and red-clay signature of the sub-region. Aromas of macerated plums, star anise, and a touch of game lead into a palate of significant volume. What impresses most is the architectural tannin structure it s firm but sophisticated, ensuring this wine will age beautifully for a decade or more. Very polished." [Ned Goodwin MW,, 01/09/2024]
Producer Profile
Artistry and Old Vines in the Barossa
Curator Wine Co is a boutique Barossa Valley producer founded by winemaker Tom White, whose journey began in the Adelaide Hills and evolved into a lifelong pursuit of crafting expressive, site-driven wines.
Based in the prestigious sub-region of Marananga, the estate focuses on heritage vineyards across the Barossa’s most sought-after corners, including Seppeltsfield, Greenock, Eden Valley, and Stone Well.
Guided by a philosophy of minimal intervention, Curator’s wines are hand-harvested and naturally fermented.By avoiding fining and filtration, Tom produces vegan-friendly wines that are pure, balanced, and deeply reflective of their origins.
Each cuvée is carefully “curated” from individual vineyard blocks to highlight the unique nuances of soil, vine age, and microclimate.
The Terroir: A Map of Excellence
The strength of Curator Wine Co lies in its access to some of the most historic fruit in South Australia. By sourcing from a “patchwork” of diverse sub-regions, the estate captures a full spectrum of Barossa character.
- Marananga & Greenock: Known for producing Shiraz of immense power, dark fruit profiles, and structural depth.
- Eden Valley: Provides the high-altitude lift and cooling influence needed for elegant, floral Rieslings and spicy, refined Syrah.
- Stone Well: Contributes fruit with exceptional concentration and “earthy” complexity.
The Craft: Sustainability and Restraint
Sustainability lies at the heart of the estate. The vineyards are farmed using minimal cultivation and no herbicides or pesticides, preserving the integrity of the land for future generations.
In the cellar, traditional techniques are met with a modern, restrained approach.
Small-batch production ensures that the richness typical of the Barossa is perfectly balanced with elegance and structural precision. This “vineyard-first” mentality allows the natural voice of the old vines to speak clearly, without being overshadowed by heavy-handed winemaking.
