Mollydooker Wines Carnival of Love Shiraz 2022 (1pk)

The Carnival of Love is fermented in 100% new American oak barrels, which is quite an aggressive approach that many winemakers would shy away from. American oak imparts more vanilla, coconut, and sweet spice characteristics compared to French oak, and using entirely new barrels means maximum extraction of these flavours. This bold technique works brilliantly with McLaren Vale Shiraz because the fruit intensity can stand up to and integrate with such powerful oak influence, creating a harmonious marriage rather than oak domination.

McLaren Vale is renowned for producing some of Australia's most powerful and concentrated Shiraz, thanks to its Mediterranean climate and diverse soil types ranging from sand to clay. The region's proximity to the ocean provides cooling influences that help retain acidity while allowing full phenolic ripeness. This terroir contributes to the wine's ability to carry such intense oak treatment while maintaining balance, and explains why it delivers those classic Australian Shiraz flavours of cherry, chocolate, and coffee with such depth and complexity.

This powerhouse Shiraz demands equally robust food companions that won't be overwhelmed by its intensity. Think slow-cooked beef brisket, lamb shanks with rosemary, or aged hard cheeses like vintage cheddar. The wine's chocolate and coffee notes make it exceptional with barbecued meats, particularly those with smoky or charred elements. The high concentration and oak influence also pair beautifully with rich, umami-driven dishes like mushroom risotto or game meats.

Serve this Shiraz at 16-18°C to allow its complex flavours to fully express themselves - too warm and the alcohol will dominate, too cool and you'll miss the nuanced aromatics. Decant for at least 30 minutes before serving to help integrate the oak and fruit components. While approachable now, this wine has the structure and concentration to cellar for 8-12 years, during which time the oak will become more integrated and secondary flavours will develop.

Mollydooker is famous for their 'Mollydooker Shake' - a technique where they turn bottles upside down before opening to integrate the wine naturally. Their philosophy centres on creating wines with maximum fruit expression and accessibility, often using techniques like extended maceration and careful oak selection to build complexity without sacrificing drinkability. The 'Carnival of Love' exemplifies this approach, being described as leaving 'nothing to the imagination' while maintaining the elegance that makes it comparable to Australia's finest wines.