The Opportunist Shiraz

This Shiraz from Langhorne Creek in South Australia uses grapes picked on the way up to ripeness to help create a freshness. They come from three separate blocks of the same vineyard, where the soil mix of sandy loam and darker red soils bring moderate fertility, low to moderate yields and long ripening periods. Treatment in 100% French and American oak for 8 months increases texture and varietal expression.

An energetic, vibrant nose of herbal cassis, ripe cherry, blackcurrants, freshly ground coffee, dark chocolate and spice flows on to a palate with lovely balance; intense yet not over-powering. Peppermint, liquorice and subtle pepper add on to the long finish. Try with beef stews, steak, or a crispy Thai beef salad.

by Thistledown is all about good clean fun. Working hand in hand with their merry (in a good season) band of growers, they craft wines of supreme quality but don’t take it all too seriously.