Tar & Roses, 'The Rose', 2019

ABOUT THE WINE. Tar & Roses is the partnership of Don Lewis and Narelle King, bringing together Australian fruit purity and European polish. Working across standout sites in Heathcote, they focus on Mediterranean varieties—and Shiraz. ‘The Rose’ Shiraz 2019 is a barrel-selection cuvée drawn from two prime Heathcote vineyards: Terra Rossa Cambrian soils for depth and power; gravelly sites for lift and definition. The result is a modern, finely structured interpretation of Heathcote Shiraz.. TASTING NOTES. Brooding aromas of blackberry, mulberry and liquorice unfold with eucalyptus and mint. The palate is sleek yet concentrated, layering black fruit, white pepper, cocoa and tobacco leaf over silky, well-knit tannins and discreet oak. Long, balanced finish with a mineral snap and excellent ageing potential.. FOOD PAIRING. Superb with grilled rib-eye, lamb cutlets, venison or chargrilled vegetables. The spicy, savoury edge makes it a natural with BBQ dishes and anything with a smoky, caramelised crust.. FRIARWOOD SAYS. Not your typical blockbuster—2019 ‘The Rose’ marries Heathcote richness with Côte-Rôtie-like finesse. A collector-worthy Shiraz that is thrilling now and poised to evolve gracefully over the next decade.