Grape Variety: 100% Shiraz

Growing Region: McLaren Vale, Australia

Winemaker: Geoff Merrill

TASTING NOTE:
The 2006 vintage overall was quite good for McLaren Vale. It was set up well early on with good winter and spring rains. The weather dried up at the right time, and warmed up considerably before harvest, bringing many varieties to ripeness almost simultaneously resulting in a very hectic few weeks. Geoff is well known for developing his wines to perfection in the winery before release - and this wine has spent an amazing 28 months in French oak - but the wine does not taste necessarily oak driven.

In the glass you are greeted by a dark red with good clarity and depth. The aroma shows a complex blend of fresh red berry fruits, liquorice, leather, oak, earth and spice. The palate is seamless, harmonious, warm and seductive. It begins with ample ripe fruit and subtle well integrated oak which gradually fills the mouth.

Velvet tannins hold everything together nicely and the finish is long, reflective and satisfying. Decant this wine for 20-30 minutes and serve at 17-18C. *(Limited).

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking perfectly well this winter season; and over the next 3-5 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with seasoned red meats, rich pasta dishes, pizza and tapas, enjoy.

91 pts, Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front 2010.