100% Shiraz. Grapes taken from McLaren Vale and Frankland River regions. Grown in Mediterranean climate on gravel ironstone over clay to limestone soil with vines up to 80 years old. The fruit was destemmed and crushed in open fermenter until extraction had fruit and tannin in balance, then basket pressed into tank. After 24hrs settling it was racked into French oak barriques (30% new, 70% 1yr old) for 18 months maturation, after which the selected parcels were blended, filtered and bottled. Winemaker Stephen Pannell.

Darkly spicy and herbal, like hacking down trees. Spicy, complex and interesting taste. Wood/fruit balance is good. The fruit is evolved and lightly baked. Very good indeed, but pricey. Alc 13.6%, TA 6.4g/l, pH 3.48, RS 2.9g/l. Available from Wine Direct and 6 branches.
15/10/2008

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