When it comes to Australian wine, Shiraz stands as a true national treasure. But within this category, there’s one region that consistently delivers a style all its own—the Hunter Valley. Known for its refined, medium-bodied expressions, Hunter Valley Shiraz offers elegance, structure, and complexity in every glass. At Ivanhoe Wines, we’re proud to carry on a tradition that not only celebrates this iconic varietal, but also tells a story more than 170 years in the making.
A Rich History in Every Bottle
Although the Ivanhoe Estate has been owned and managed by the Drayton family since the 1960s, the family’s connection to this land stretches back generations. The Draytons first settled in Pokolbin over 172 years ago, establishing one of the region’s earliest family-owned vineyards. Even before acquiring Ivanhoe, they were sourcing fruit from its rich volcanic soils—using its prized Shiraz to craft some of the most highly regarded wines of the time.
In the mid-1900s, Reginald Drayton, father of current owner, Stephen Drayton, replanted the Ivanhoe hillside with Shiraz vines that still flourish today. These mature vines, nourished by decades of care and deeply rooted in ancient volcanic soil, are the foundation of Ivanhoe’s signature red wines.
Terroir: The Soul of Shiraz
The terroir of the Hunter Valley is truly unique. At Ivanhoe, our Shiraz vines thrive in red loam soil, rich in volcanic minerals and slight clay—ideal for growing grapes with incredible concentration and structure. Our hillside blocks benefit from excellent drainage and a favourable aspect, reducing vine vigour and focusing the plant’s energy into producing intensely flavoured, smaller berries.
This combination of soil, slope, and vine age is what sets Ivanhoe Shiraz apart. It’s also what makes Hunter Valley Shiraz so special across the board—a wine shaped by the land and nurtured by history.
A Style Defined by Elegance and Depth
Unlike the full-bodied Shiraz found in warmer Australian regions, Hunter Valley Shiraz tends to be medium-bodied with a savoury structure, balanced acidity, and fine tannins. At Ivanhoe, we embrace this regional character.
Our Shiraz displays classic varietal notes of plum, blackberry, and a hint of peppery spice, layered with subtle oak and earthy undertones. Its rich purple hue and approachable palate make it a versatile wine for pairing, while its complexity ensures it holds its own in any cellar.
With time, Ivanhoe Shiraz develops beautifully—evolving into a more savoury, textured wine with secondary characters of leather, tobacco, and forest floor. It’s a wine that rewards both patience and passion.
From Vineyard to Glass
The winemaking approach at Ivanhoe is hands-on and rooted in respect for tradition. We allow the fruit and terroir to take centre stage, using thoughtful techniques to enhance the natural expression of the grape. Our focus is on balance—capturing the power and structure of Shiraz, while highlighting the elegance and finesse that the Hunter Valley is known for.
Stephen and Tracy Drayton live and breathe this philosophy. For them, Ivanhoe is more than a vineyard—it’s a way of life, shaped by heritage and driven by a shared love of wine and people.
Taste the Legacy
Whether you are new to Hunter Valley Shiraz or a devoted admirer of its elegance, the Ivanhoe Shiraz range offers a wine to suit every preference. Each bottle reflects the unique terroir of our estate and the Drayton family's generations of expertise and passion in crafting bold, beautifully balanced red wines. Discover our current Shiraz releases below.
2022 Jouster Shiraz
Bright, approachable, and bursting with charm, the 2022 Jouster Shiraz offers a rich, fruit-driven palate led by sweet cherries and silky tannins. A gentle oak balance and smooth finish make this an incredibly versatile drop—fun, vibrant and even enjoyable slightly chilled on a warm day.
Pair it with: Duck pancakes with sticky plum sauce or a generous charcuterie platter shared with friends.
Drinking: Perfect now.
2022 Swordsman Shiraz
This Shiraz is all about strength and character. Aged in quality oak, the 2022 Swordsman Shiraz delivers a rich, structured palate that’s both powerful and refined. A wine that stands tall at the table and holds its own against bold, hearty dishes.
Pair it with: Slow-cooked wagyu beef or smoked duck.
Drinking: Delicious now or cellar for 8–12 years.
2022 Shiraz Pressings
Big, bold and beautifully structured, the 2022 Pressings is a full-bodied Shiraz that showcases spice, pepper and quality oak with serious length and tannin. Made from the richest parcels of fruit, this is a standout for lovers of deeply expressive reds.
Pair it with: Grainge Signature Black Angus sirloin with asparagus and hollandaise, or wood-fired grilled lamb shoulder with carrot, parsley, Reggiano and truffle dressing.
Drinking: Enjoy now for power and richness, or cellar for 10–15 years.
2019 Ivanhoe Shiraz (Museum Release)
A traditional full-bodied Hunter Shiraz, carefully aged in the Drayton Family Cellar and released at its peak. This museum release is layered with delicate cherry and white pepper notes, seamlessly integrated French oak, and a refined tannin finish—elegance in every sip.
Pair it with: Chargrilled Wagyu fillet with mushroom sauce or pan-seared duck with fig and orange dressing.
Drinking: Enjoy now or cellar for 8–10 years.
2023 Ivanhoe Shiraz
Crafted in a traditional Hunter Valley style, the 2023 Ivanhoe Shiraz shows classic notes of pepper and spice, with rich fruit and refined French oak. A beautifully balanced full-bodied wine with great depth and warmth—ideal for cosy evenings and comforting meals.
Pair it with: Hearty vegetable ratatouille and crusty baguette or charcoal-seared rib-eye with garlic roasted vegetables.
Drinking: Ready to enjoy now or cellar for 6–8 years.
To fully appreciate the unique qualities of Hunter Valley Shiraz, we encourage you to book a tasting at our cellar door and experience Ivanhoe Shiraz firsthand. Discover the legacy of our volcanic soils, mature vines, and over 170 years of family heritage.