2018 Penny's Hill ‘Cracking Black’ Shiraz, McLaren Vale, Australia (750ml)

Truly representative of the Penny’s Hill McLaren Vale terroir, ‘Cracking Black’ pays homage to the Bay of Biscay soils which contribute to the generosity and richness of the mighty Shiraz wines from the region.

Cracking Black Shiraz is sourced from the estate Malpas Road Vineyard, planted in 1991 on land which was originally referred to as ‘Bay of Biscay’. This is an obvious reference to the relatively infertile cracking, gray-black soil upon which the hand-tended Shiraz patch does its work. The fissures, which occur as the black soil cracks apart, sever surplus root structure; a process which naturally lessens vigor and enhances ultimate grape quality. Other fruit parcels were sourced from the slightly higher elevated vines of the Penny’s Hill Vineyard. Detailed canopy management, judicious irrigation and passionate viticultural practices in both these high class vineyards contribute to this outstanding Shiraz.

Lifted dark berry fruits and satsuma plum with underlying mocha, anise and finely integrated oak spice. Oozing with dark cherry and blackberry fruit, the palate is well-balanced with licorice and spice, showing hints of black olive and tar. This generous wine has supple tannins and exceptional fruit length.