Standish Wine Company The Relic Shiraz 2021

The Relic showcases an unusual creamy plushness that's reminiscent of viognier's texture, creating a unique mouthfeel rarely found in traditional Shiraz. This distinctive characteristic comes from Dan Standish's innovative winemaking approach, where he achieves remarkable balance despite the wine's substantial 15.5% alcohol content. The result is a Shiraz that defies expectations with its floral drive and symphony of fruit flavours.

With many years still left in the tank according to expert assessment, The Relic 2021 has excellent ageing potential that could extend well into the 2030s. Barossa Shiraz from premium producers like Standish typically develops greater complexity over 10-15 years, with the wine's structured tannins and full-bodied nature providing the backbone for long-term cellaring. The high alcohol content and concentrated fruit will help preserve the wine's integrity as it evolves.

The exceptional ratings of 98+ points from Robert Parker and 96 points from James Halliday reflect the wine's remarkable balance and complexity. Critics particularly praised how Dan Standish managed to create harmony between the wine's powerful 15.5% alcohol, rich fruit concentration, and elegant structure. The combination of earthy, liquorice, and spice notes with that distinctive creamy texture demonstrates masterful winemaking that elevates this above typical Barossa offerings.

The Relic's rich, full-bodied profile with earthy and spice characteristics makes it perfect for robust dishes like slow-cooked lamb, aged beef steaks, or game meats. The wine's creamy plushness and structured tannins can handle rich sauces and strong flavours, while its liquorice notes complement dishes with herbs like rosemary or thyme. Consider pairing with mature cheeses or dark chocolate desserts to highlight the wine's complex flavour symphony.

Dan Standish has earned recognition as one of the Barossa's finest winemakers through his ability to craft wines that balance power with elegance. His Five Red Star Halliday rating reflects consistent excellence across his portfolio, while The Relic demonstrates his innovative approach to traditional varietals. Standish's wines are known for their distinctive character and ageing potential, making them highly sought after by collectors and wine enthusiasts who appreciate nuanced, premium Barossa expressions.