Overview
Old Block is one of St Hallett’s flagship expressions of Barossa Shiraz, first produced in 1980. Once sourced from a single vineyard, it has evolved into a selection of exceptional old-vine parcels from across the Barossa and Eden Valleys, with vines required to be more than 50 years old to qualify for the wine.
Vineyard
The 2021 Old Block is made from carefully selected old-vine Shiraz parcels across the Barossa and Eden Valleys. The combination of warmer Barossa sites and cooler, elevated Eden Valley vineyards contributes richness, aromatic lift, freshness and structural complexity.
Winemaking
Each vineyard parcel was harvested and fermented separately to preserve its individual character. After pressing, the wine was transferred to French oak hogsheads and puncheons, approximately 25% new, for 12–18 months of maturation before final blending.
Critic Reviews
95/100 — Decanter World Wine Awards
Tasted January 2026
92/100 — Winepilot
“The 2021 Old Block Shiraz is a charmer with its multi-layered opening of potpourri, blackberry, chocolate and dark cherry…”
Tasted June 2026
James Suckling
“Deeply scented aromas of blackberries, licorice, blue fruit and violets. The palate is full-bodied with integrated tannins and bright acidity…”
Tasted January 2025
Awards
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Gold — Royal Adelaide Wine Show, awarded 2024
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Silver — Royal Queensland Awards, awarded 2024
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Silver — Sydney Royal Competitions, awarded 2024
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Bronze — National Wine Show of Australia, awarded 2026
Producer
St Hallett has specialised in Barossa Shiraz for decades, working with vineyards across both the Barossa Valley and Eden Valley. Old Block represents the estate’s long-standing focus on mature vines, individual vineyard character and age-worthy Shiraz.
Specifications
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Vintage: 2021
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Producer: St Hallett
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Wine: Old Block Shiraz
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Country: Australia
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Region: Barossa
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Vineyard Sources: Barossa Valley and Eden Valley
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Grape Variety: 100% Shiraz
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Vine Age: Selected parcels from vines more than 50 years old
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Wine Style: Still Red Wine
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Sweetness: Dry
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Alcohol: 14.5%
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Oak: French oak hogsheads and puncheons, approximately 25% new
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Maturation: 12–18 months
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Winemaker: Helen McCarthy