55% Shiraz, 41% Grenache & 4% Mataro. 9 months in french oak. Colour: bright crimson red & pink. Aroma: forest fruits, raw coffee beans with a note of curry leaves and balsamic. Palate: intensity of fruit & spicy saffron. Cellar: 10 years plus.

The AAA on the label pays homage to David’s days in the wool trade and was stamped on the best grades of wool by the Guesser. It is a vibrant blend of Shiraz, Grenache and Mataro from some special little pockets amongst our vineyards. The Shiraz was selected from the ‘Gateway’ and ‘Jones Block’ vineyards, renowned for producing some of the best fruit in the region. These select parcels were blended with complimentary Grenache to create a wine that is engaging to a wide range of drinkers. Our blend is fun, appealing and, unlike some members of Paxton, not over the top.

Vintage Notes

2021 was one of those dream vintages that don’t come along every year; cool, refreshing nights and dreamy, sun-kissed days without any extended stretches of intense heat. After a warmer than usual November there were only four days above 40 degrees. It was mainly dry throughout the ripening season with the odd spattering of just enough rain to keep the grapes beautifully plump, juicy and full of bright fruit flavours and time to dry out in between so disease pressure was low. The gentle undulation between these varying temperatures and perfectly healthy canopies allowed us to really ponder picking times, spending plenty of time out in the vineyard tasting grapes getting the timing of picking just right. The generous harvest has rewarded us with delightfully delicate fruit and varietal characters, with each variety singing its own tune. Natural acids are in perfect balance and the smooth, sensuous tannins completed by an epic energetic vibration that we can’t wait to share with you

Bouquet

Think dark brambly forest fruits intertwined with raw coffee beans, like a trek to the depths of the Balinese mountains. In the background, notes of fresh curry leaves, pine resin and balsamic notes hint to whole bunches used in the fermentation and completed by a feather-light touch of delicate French oak.

Palate

Shiraz and Grenache together makes for such a dynamic blend and decadent mouthfeel. Shiraz bringing the mid palate weight and intensity of fruit flavours, while the spicy saffron liveliness of Grenache pulls everything together for a party on your palate. The finish is just like ending your night with smooth electric beats.

Vinification

Individual vineyard parcels of Shiraz and Grenache fermented in a combination of open top and static fermenters. During this process, each parcel was plunged and/or pumped over twice a day for 14 days, to extract colour, flavour and tannin structure. The ferments were pressed to seasoned French oak barriques (225L) and puncheons (500L), where they were nurtured for 9 months prior to blending and bottling.