The Exquisite 2020 Whispering Hills Shiraz: A Journey Through Gold Medal Excellence

The 2020 Whispering Hills Single Vineyard Shiraz from Capel Vale Wines stands out as a remarkable example of Australian winemaking. This wine has earned prestigious gold medals at the 2022 Decanter World Wine Awards and Wine Orbit, reflecting its exceptional quality and complexity. For wine enthusiasts seeking a rich, layered Shiraz with aging potential, this vintage offers a compelling experience worth exploring.

Aromatic Profile and Tasting Notes

The 2020 Whispering Hills Shiraz opens with earthy, herbal, and savoury aromas. These scents are complemented by subtle hints of dry spice, creating an inviting nose that promises complexity. On the palate, the wine reveals a broad and rich texture with flavours of wild raspberry, perfumed blueberries, violets, herbs, and spices. The oak influence is polished and ripe, adding depth without overpowering the fruit.

Tannins are firm yet refined, providing structure and balance. The wine’s freshness supports its richness, making it enjoyable now but also suitable for aging. This balance between power and elegance is a hallmark of the vintage, appealing to those who appreciate a Shiraz with both intensity and finesse.

Awards and Critical Acclaim

The 2020 Whispering Hills Shiraz has received high praise from respected wine critics and competitions:

• Gold Medal at the 2022 Decanter World Wine Awards with a score of 96 points. The judges described it as "gracefully opulent with dark fruit richness, violet, warm spice, and cedar characters." They highlighted its concentration, plush mouthfeel, and seamless tannins, noting a long, harmonious finish.

  
  

• Gold Medal at the 2022 Wine Orbit Awards, where Sam Kim awarded it 96 points. He emphasised the wine’s terrific power balanced by silky tannins and bright acidity that brings definition to the spicy flavours.

  
  

• 93 points from James Suckling (October 2022), who noted a savory nose of grilled meat, crushed plums, black cherries, cracked pepper, and leather. He described the wine as full-bodied with linear and vibrant palate characteristics and a generous finish.

  
  

These accolades confirm the wine’s status as a top-tier Shiraz with broad appeal among critics and consumers alike.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This Shiraz’s complex flavour profile and firm tannins make it a versatile partner for food. Consider pairing it with:

• Grilled or roasted red meats such as lamb or beef, which complement the wine’s savory and spicy notes.

• Dishes with earthy mushrooms or herbs like rosemary and thyme to echo the herbal aromas.

• Rich stews or slow-cooked dishes that allow the wine’s structure and fruit to shine alongside bold flavours.

  
  

These pairings will enhance the tasting experience, highlighting the wine’s depth and freshness.

Aging Potential and Serving Tips

The 2020 Whispering Hills Shiraz has good potential for aging due to its firm tannins and balanced acidity. Cellaring it for 5 to 10 years will allow the flavors to integrate further and develop additional complexity.

For immediate enjoyment, decant the wine for at least 30 minutes to open up its aromas and soften the tannins. Serve it at around 16-18°C to fully appreciate its rich character.