Kaesler 'Old Bastard' Shiraz

The Kaesler ‘Old Bastard’ Shiraz is one of Australia’s most iconic and collectible wines — a commanding Barossa classic of immense depth, power, and heritage. Sourced from vines planted in 1893, it delivers intensity, structure, and elegance in equal measure, embodying over a century of Barossa history in every glass.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Profoundly rich and complex, this Shiraz opens with dense aromas of blackberry, plum, cassis and liquorice, threaded with mocha, spice and earthy depth. The palate is powerful yet poised, delivering layers of dark fruit, chocolate and savoury spice over firm, silky tannins. A long, commanding finish showcases both the wine’s precision and its extraordinary concentration.

Key Details

• Winery: Kaesler
• Grape: Shiraz
• Region: Barossa Valley, South Australia
• Vintage: 2020
• ABV: 14.5%
• Volume: 750ml
• Vine Age: Planted 1893 (Ancestor Vines)
• Other: Sustainable Winegrowing, Vegan-friendly

Craftsmanship & Story

The ‘Old Bastard’ Shiraz is the crown jewel of Kaesler’s Old Vine Trio. Its fruit comes exclusively from low-yielding vines planted in 1893, producing some of the Barossa’s most concentrated berries. Hand-picked, hand-pruned and matured in premium French oak for 20 months, this wine is an “iron fist in a velvet glove” — structured, luxurious, and timeless. A living link to Barossa’s vinous heritage.

Special Features

Kaesler’s commitment to regenerative viticulture, minimal irrigation, and soil restoration underpins the vitality of its ancient vines. The winery’s 2025 “Best Medium-Sized Winery” accolade and environmental awards affirm its leadership in sustainable excellence. The Old Bastard Shiraz remains a global benchmark for premium old-vine Barossa Shiraz — profound, cellar-worthy, and unmistakably Kaesler.

Recognition & Accolades

Celebrated worldwide for its depth and longevity:

• 97/100 Points – Andrew Caillard MW (2020 vintage)
• 96/100 Points – The Real Review (2020 vintage)
• 95/100 Points – James Halliday, Wine Companion (2020 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – Angus Hughson, Vinous (2020 vintage)
• 98/100 Points – Nicks Wines (2018 vintage)
• 97/100 Points – James Suckling (2018 vintage)
• 5 Stars – Gavin Hubble (2018 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (2018 vintage)

Consistently ranked among Australia’s finest Shiraz, and listed as “Outstanding” in Langton’s Classification of Australian Wine.

Food Pairings

The Kaesler ‘Old Bastard’ Shiraz pairs magnificently with rich, robust cuisine. Enjoy alongside aged ribeye with mushroom jus, slow-braised lamb shanks or venison in red wine sauce. Its intensity complements smoky barbecue ribs, game meats and truffle-infused dishes. For a rustic pairing, try pappardelle with ragu or charred eggplant parmigiana. Aged cheddar, Manchego or blue cheeses highlight its dark fruit and spice, while a piece of dark chocolate provides a luxurious finish.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

A legend of Barossa winemaking — powerful, polished and deeply expressive. Perfect for collectors and milestone celebrations, the ‘Old Bastard’ stands as a proud symbol of Australia’s old-vine mastery.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.