Shiraz from Helen and Angus Tuck’s vineyard in Baker’s Gully, McLaren Vale which is “ironstone pebble laden clay loam, over ancient Kurrajong Formation geology…. a silica cemented conglomerate.” Whole bunch, ambient yeasts. Basket pressed into French oak (20% new). One for the front of the pride.

Dandelion Vineyards, Lioness of McLaren Vale, Shiraz , McLaren Vale, 2019

Sapid, deep raspberry with distinct stony/ferrous vein.  White pepper, rock salt and clove spice with sweet woody oak.  That oak influence carries through to the palate: Dark charry vanilla tinged sweetness with tight, grainy astringent tannin. Fruit wise: pomegranate, blackberry and raspberry pulp supported by a suggestion of creaminess through the mid-palate. I want to like this more as the fruit appeals, but the oak for now just takes away the focus.

RRP: $30
Alc: 14.5%
Rating:17.75/20 (90/100)

Wine sample courtesy of Dandelion Vineyards