COLOUR: Rich red with a deep crimson hue
AROMA: Aromas burst from the glass, with soy, glazed berries, dried herbs, blackberry, blueberry, cracked pepper, dark plum and earthy undertones, lifted by subtle hints of fresh game and spice.
PALATE: On entry, the wine is medium-bodied and beautifully primary, with bright blue-fruited notes leading the way. Blackberry, blueberry and dark plum sit at the core, while delicate floral tones and savoury spice linger in the background. The palate builds with quiet confidence, shaped by taut acidity that brings freshness, lift and a cleansing line through the wine. The tannins carry a distinctive iron-like savoury edge, adding depth and a clear sense of Heathcote character. At this youthful stage, the wine feels tightly coiled and compressed, with secondary notes of red liquorice, frankincense and nougat beginning to emerge. The texture is the standout, unfurling slowly with elegance and restraint, leaving behind fine tannins and a gentle thread of acidity. The 2023 Max’s Garden is sophisticated, mineral and finely structured, with the balance and framework for a long evolution in the cellar.
