Black Magic Shiraz: Redefining Bold Australian Red Wine

Australian Shiraz has long been considered a rite of passage for wine enthusiasts, admired for its striking flavors and approachable nature. Known for its velvety texture and intense flavors, Shiraz has secured its place among the world's most popular red wines, often rivaling Argentina's Malbec and Spain's Monastrell. Interestingly, the origins of this grape variety trace back to southern France, where it is known as Syrah. French Syrah is renowned for its intricate layers and balanced structure, but it doesn’t match the bold, full-bodied expression that Australian Shiraz achieves under a warmer climate.

While French Syrah is often a key component in blends like the iconic Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Australian Shiraz tends to stand out as a single-varietal wine, offering powerful fruit-forward flavors. Barossa Valley, in particular, has become synonymous with exceptional Shiraz, carving a reputation for producing some of the most robust and unforgettable iterations of this iconic grape variety.

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Barossa Valley: The Home of Single-Varietal Shiraz

Though Shiraz is produced in wine regions across Australia, Barossa Valley has distinguished itself as a haven for 100% Shiraz wines. Many wineries in this region, especially those in the warmer, northern parts closer to the equator, remain steadfast in producing single-varietal Shiraz—a testament to their deep-rooted pride in the grape. These wines are defined by bold blackberry and plum flavors complemented by pepper, clove, mint, and occasionally hints of leather. The richness and intensity of Barossa Shiraz make it a natural companion for beef or lamb dishes.

In its pure form, Barossa Shiraz is approachable to those new to wine-drinking, but it also showcases a level of complexity that appeals to seasoned palates. Over time, wine enthusiasts often gravitate from these bold, fruit-focused Shiraz wines to more intricate and elegant French Syrahs, where firm tannins and complex layers reward a more patient tasting experience. This progression echoes the journey of personal growth and refined taste, much like advancing through life’s intellectual pursuits.

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A Seoul Event with International Flair

At a recent event in Seoul’s upscale Gangnam district, a subtle nod to the global appeal of wine was on full display. My friend, an acupuncturist, celebrated the opening of her new body-care shop with an impressive selection of international wines carefully curated for an audience of wellness-conscious women in their thirties to fifties. The price range for the wines was approachable, between 30,000 and 50,000 won, including popular and dependable labels such as Australia’s 19 Crimes and Portugal’s Silk & Spice. Each bottle offered a smooth and enjoyable finish, making these selections a hit with both casual wine drinkers and aficionados alike.

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The Star of the Show: Black Magic Shiraz 2019

The standout moment of the evening came when the host introduced a wine chosen specifically for the occasion: Black Magic Shiraz 2019 from Small Gully, a winery nestled within the Barossa Valley. From the first sip, this wine delivered an unforgettable sensory experience, akin to the effervescence of Dr Pepper paired with velvety chocolate undertones. This unique, luxurious flavor profile sets it apart even among some of the exceptional Shiraz wines I’ve experienced, such as the renowned Hermitage wines from France’s Rhône Valley or Barossa’s Astralis.

Crafted from Shiraz grapes sourced from the northern and western vineyards of the Barossa Valley, the 2019 vintage of Black Magic boasts an extraordinarily high alcohol content of 16.4%, which is unusually high for red wine. Despite this, the wine flows smoothly across the palate, finishing with remarkable length and rich notes of vanilla, nutmeg, and chocolate. Its incredibly concentrated fruitiness is enhanced by molasses-like sweetness, creating a sensory spectacle that lingers long after each sip. The tannins are remarkably soft, lending the wine a drinkability that belies its high alcohol content.

Its excellent performance has caught the attention of wine enthusiasts, earning it a 4.5 Vivino rating, with earlier vintages, such as the 2014, achieving an even more impressive score of 4.8. Retailing at 90,000 to 100,000 won, Black Magic Shiraz represents exceptional value for its price. The wine’s decadent profile—lush chocolate notes combined with ripe, concentrated fruit—makes it an ideal choice for indulgent occasions like Valentine’s Day or intimate gatherings.

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Black Magic Shiraz: A New Standard for Barossa Reds

Barossa Valley Shiraz is celebrated for its intensity and richness, but Black Magic 2019 elevates these qualities to an entirely new level. Its lavish chocolate flavors and near-port-like richness blur the line between wine and dessert, while its soft, approachable tannins ensure wide appeal. It’s a wine that beckons to be shared, offering immediate satisfaction without the need for extensive cellaring.

As one of the most memorable Shiraz wines I’ve encountered in years, Black Magic 2019 is both a testament to Barossa’s excellence in winemaking and an exciting experience for anyone seeking a truly bold and luxurious red wine.

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Eunjung Kwon is a veteran food and wine journalist with over two decades of expertise. A graduate of ICIF in Piedmont, Italy, he has contributed to prominent publications such as Kyunghyang Shinmun, Yonhap News, and Chosun Ilbo. Kwon is also the author of celebrated books including “Wine and Tuna Mayo” and “Tasting Italy Through Pasta.”