Mclaren Vale Shiraz is inherently suited to the Grey Label style, rich, plush and powerful, yet with an approachability that provides sheer enjoyment throughout its evolution over time in bottle.
Grey Label Shiraz was sourced from vineyards ranging in altitudes from about 50m near the coast to 200m where McLaren Vale merges with the Adelaide Hills, bringing complexity and layers of interest to the final wine. The region mostly spans two basins of ancient bedrock layered with sediments laid down by advances and retreats of the sea over the past 45 million years. Soil types vary from sands, yellow clays, and red and black loams through to ironstone.
Individual vineyard batches were fermented in small open-top fermenters for 5 to 10 days. Plunging and gentle irrigation were used to work the cap and optimise flavour, colour and tannin extraction, providing for concentration and depth of fruit flavour, while keeping tannins plush, hallmarks of the Grey Label style. Select batches completed fermentation in barrel, contributing mid-palate texture, while others finished fermentation on skins, providing structural length and focus.
Varietal | Shiraz |
---|---|
Vintage | 2019 |
Country | Australia |
Region | McLaren Vale |
Volume | 750 mL |
Closure | Screw Cap |
Alc/Vol | 14.5% |
Peak Drinking | Now - 2030+ |
Winemaker | The Wolf Blass Team |
McLaren Vale Shiraz Trophy | International Wine Challenge 2021 |
Gold | International Wine Challenge 2021 |
Bronze | 2022 Hobart Wine Show |
Bronze | 2022 Royal Queensland Wine Show |
Bronze | 2022 International Wine and Spirit Competition |
95 Points | Jeni Port |
95 Points | Huon Hooke |
94 Points | Ken Gargett |
94 Points | James Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion 2023 |
93 Points | Andrew Caillard |
92 Points | Ray Jordan |
A complex, layered nose of lifted blueberry, blackberry and blood plum, with hints of dark chocolate, liquorice and warm spices, enhanced with subtle, fragrant oak.
McLaren Vale lies nestled between the Mt Lofty Ranges and the rolling white sand beaches of Gulf St Vincent. With its warm Mediterranean climate, relaxed coastal ambience and superb local produce, McLaren Vale is a melting pot of food, wine and the arts: the ultimate epicurean destination. The region is renowned for its soft and velvety Shiraz, with pronounced berry, spice and chocolate flavours.
October to March rainfall was well below average, with judicious irrigation required to develop canopies early in the season and maintain vine health throughout summer. McLaren Vale’s proximity to the moderating influence of Gulf St Vincent helped temper the hot summer days. Fruit was picked at optimal ripeness, yet while still retaining natural acidity and fresh, bright flavours.
The Wolf Blass team of winemakers share a similar working ethos – to boldly chase the pursuit of excellence, to uphold and represent Wolf Blass' proud history, and to create wine of exceptional quality.