The Real Review | Huon Hooke | 2025

Huon Hooke is the Chair of the Vin de Champagne Awards and judge of the Australian Winemaker of the Year. He tastes wines blind and writes for The Real Review, Decanter and Gourmet Traveller Wine, and the Sydney Morning Herald. - The Real Review

Yacca Block Eden Valley Shiraz 2022 – 95/100 points– Gold
Eden Valley
AUD 145
Diam
14.6%
750 ml
“Very deep, bright and bold purple colour; fruit drives the nose which is all about plum, mulberry, blackberry and star-anise aromas, the palate big and bold with lashings of sweet blackberry and dried cranberry fruit, before a firm tannin grip on the lingering finish. A big, solid shiraz that is balanced, but will give so much more if allowed the time.” – HH

Ranked #6 of 18
2022 Shiraz from Eden Valley

Bella’s Garden Barossa Valley Shiraz 2022 – 95/100 points– Gold
Barossa Valley
AUD 70
Diam
14.7%
750 ml
“The colour is deep and bright purple-red; the bouquet has vegetal (whole-bunch?) nuances as well as mixed spice and chocolate touches; pepper, clove and licorice to the fore. Full bodied and rich in the mouth with lashings of supple tannins and very long persistence. Trace of pleasant bitterness in the follow-through. A biggie that will age long-term.” – HH

Ranked #26 of 137
2022 Shiraz from Barossa Valley

The Real Review is a pioneering platform that redefines wine criticism for the digital age. The Real Review’s international expert tasting team reviews around 10,000 wines per year, with a focus on Australia and New Zealand, more than any other wine publication, offering comprehensive tasting notes, ratings, and recommendations to empower consumers and elevate their wine experiences. With a commitment to transparency, integrity, and the highest standards of professionalism in wine criticism, The Real Review has the largest reach of any wine publication in Australia and New Zealand, and is the go-to destination for wine lovers around the world. - The Real Review