2023 The Dam Block Shiraz Receives 96 Points
A Vineyard of Distinction: The Dam Block
Nestled just across the dam from the renowned Kiss Shiraz vineyard in Pokolbin, the Dam Block is a mere 0.8-hectare plot that has garnered attention for its unique terroir. Despite its proximity to the Kiss vineyard, the Dam Block offers a distinct expression of Shiraz, characterized by dark blue fruits, savory textures, and al-dente tannins. Its limited size and unirrigated vines contribute to the concentration and quality of the fruit, making it a cherished source for Thomas Wines.
The 2023 Vintage: A Season to Remember
The 2023 vintage in the Hunter Valley is being hailed as the best since 2018, offering ideal conditions for red varietals. At Thomas Wines, our winemakers have capitalized on this exceptional season, producing a suite of Shiraz wines that have been met with enthusiasm from both critics and consumers. The Dam Block Shiraz, in particular, stands out for its balance and depth, embodying the strengths of the vintage.
Crafting the 2023 Dam Block Shiraz
The winemaking process for the 2023 Dam Block Shiraz was carefully designed to highlight the vineyard's character. The fruit was destemmed but not crushed, allowing for the development of bright carbonic characters during a cool, seven-day fermentation on skins. Following fermentation, the wine was matured for 14 months in a combination of new, one-year-old, and four-year-old French oak hogsheads (300L). This approach imparted subtle oak influences while preserving the wine's vibrant fruit profile.
Sourced from a tiny 0.8ha block, this is a composed shiraz with lovely savouriness. Fragrant, tight and medium weight, with a core of lemony acidity. With aeration, silky blue fruits emerge alongside gently succulent cherry and flecks of juniper. Powerful yet graceful and utterly delicious.
- 96 Points, Toni Paterson MW for Halliday Wine Companion 2025
Critical Acclaim
The 2023 Dam Block Shiraz has received significant praise from wine critics. Toni Paterson MW awarded it 96 points in the Halliday Wine Companion, describing it as "a composed shiraz with lovely savouriness... powerful yet graceful and utterly delicious." thomaswines.com.au
QWine Reviews also lauded the wine, noting its expressive nature and the concentration derived from its small, unirrigated site. The review highlighted the wine's "elevated fragrance" and "tense tannins," suggesting it has excellent aging potential.
The 2023 Dam Block Shiraz was officially released on May 17, 2025.