The relaunched Ivyburn label from CW Wines sees some heavy packaging and big wines. This wine under wax seal and DIAM. The name comes from this description from the winery: “Built in 1844, the first chapel in McLaren Vale was erected on Aldersey St. Revered Isaac Prior was the inaugural minister, conducting regular services in the district. This wine pays tribute to the first minister for bringing the community together; with Ivyburn being the name of his home.” The Pioneer is the Icon of the range, with fruit coming from the renowned Blewitt Springs sub-region of McLaren Vale.

Ivyburn, The Pioneer, Shiraz, McLaren Vale, 2021

Deep purple with ermine rim. Okay, we’re not here to pat kittens anymore. Intense and profound: literally dumped into a vat of Shiraz fruit and oak. A veritable plethora of black cherry, grilled plums, fresh concrete, shaved truffle, raspberries in dark chocolate, turned earth, baked beets, mocha oak, espresso coffee, tea cake and a little crushed ant. The palate ratchets things up another level. Mouth filling and near overwhelming: There’s some medicinal/alpine herb overtones to an incredibly supple and smooth palate. Opulence, elegance, seriousness with understated intensity and drive. Retaining enough acidity for freshness, lift and a balance to very ripe tannins. Will have a long future ahead, but it’s drinking perfectly now.

RRP: $330
Alc: 14.5%
Rating:  95/100

Wine sample courtesy of CW Wines