Geoff Merrill Pimpala Vineyards Shiraz 2017

This Pimpala Vineyards Shiraz represents a step up from the Pimpala Road range, being carefully selected barrel picks from Geoff's reserve collection. The extended 20-month oak maturation in both French and American barrels, followed by over three years of cellar ageing, creates a more complex and integrated wine. This additional time allows the powerful McLaren Vale fruit to harmonise with the decadent oak influences, resulting in a more premium expression of the vineyard's potential.

McLaren Vale's warm Mediterranean climate and rich soils produce intensely concentrated Shiraz grapes with natural chocolate and spice characteristics. The combination of 20 months in French and American oak barrels adds vanilla, coconut, and roasted notes that complement the wine's inherent dark fruit flavours. When these elements meld together over three years of cellar ageing, they create those indulgent dessert-like qualities - the dark chocolate from the fruit, the 'cake' richness from extended oak contact, and creamy textures from malolactic fermentation.

Having already spent over three years maturing in the cellar before release, this 2017 Shiraz is drinking beautifully now with all its components well-integrated. However, quality McLaren Vale Shiraz like this can continue developing for 10-15 years, gradually softening tannins and developing more complex tertiary flavours like leather, earth, and dried herbs. The 95-point Wine Orbit rating suggests exceptional quality that will reward both immediate enjoyment and patient cellaring.

The wine's rich, oaky profile and full-bodied structure make it perfect for robust dishes that can match its intensity. Think slow-cooked lamb shanks, grilled ribeye steak, or rich game meats like venison, where the wine's dark chocolate and spice notes will complement the meat's savoury depth. The coconut and vanilla oak influences also pair beautifully with barbecued meats or dishes featuring smoky, caramelised flavours from grilling or roasting.

James Halliday's Five Red Star rating represents the pinnacle of Australian winemaking excellence, awarded to fewer than 100 wineries nationwide. This recognition indicates that Geoff Merrill consistently produces wines of outstanding quality across their range, with exceptional vineyard management, winemaking expertise, and track record. For consumers, it's a guarantee that you're buying from one of Australia's most respected producers, where even their reserve selections like this Pimpala Vineyards Shiraz represent exceptional value and craftsmanship.