Richard Hamilton The Surgeon Shiraz 2022

The Surgeon's exceptional structure and balanced power create the foundation for long-term ageing potential. McLaren Vale Shiraz develops beautifully over time, with the wine's current black olive, plum and vanilla notes evolving into more complex tertiary flavours like leather, earth and spice. Richard Hamilton's traditional winemaking approach ensures the tannins will soften gracefully while maintaining the wine's core intensity.

McLaren Vale's Mediterranean climate and diverse soils create ideal conditions for producing rich, full-bodied Shiraz with distinctive regional character. The area's proximity to the ocean moderates temperatures, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavour compounds. This terroir contributes to the wine's signature combination of power and refinement that has made McLaren Vale one of Australia's most celebrated Shiraz regions.

The wine's savoury black olive notes make it exceptional with Mediterranean dishes like lamb tagine, grilled eggplant, or tapenade-crusted beef. The rich plum character pairs beautifully with game meats, aged cheeses, and dishes featuring dark fruits or balsamic reductions. The vanilla undertones from oak ageing also complement barbecued meats and dishes with subtle spice elements.

Ray Jordan's 97-point rating reflects the wine's rare combination of complexity, refinement and balanced power - qualities that distinguish exceptional Shiraz from merely good examples. The consistent high scores across multiple critics indicate Richard Hamilton's mastery of his craft and the outstanding quality of the 2022 vintage. Such acclaim typically signals a wine that delivers both immediate drinking pleasure and long-term cellaring potential.

Richard Hamilton has been crafting wines in McLaren Vale since before the region gained its current prestigious reputation, giving him decades of experience with the local terroir. His approach combines traditional winemaking wisdom with modern techniques, resulting in wines that express both regional character and individual style. This deep understanding of McLaren Vale's potential allows him to consistently produce Shiraz that balances power with elegance.