Penny's Hill Single Vineyard Shiraz 2022

The vineyard's elevated position at 140 metres creates a cooler microclimate that allows the grapes to ripen more slowly and develop greater complexity. Combined with old vines from 1991 planted at high density, each vine produces less fruit but concentrates more flavour into what it does yield. This results in a more refined, elegant style of Shiraz that showcases finesse rather than the power typically associated with McLaren Vale.

Vines over 30 years old have developed extensive root systems that dig deep into McLaren Vale's diverse soils, accessing minerals and water sources that young vines cannot reach. The high-density planting forces competition between vines, naturally limiting yields and concentrating flavours. This combination produces grapes with more complex flavour compounds and better natural acidity, contributing to the wine's structured tannins and long, elegant finish.

The wine's concentrated red fruit flavours and milk chocolate notes make it excellent with grilled lamb, beef steaks, or rich game meats. The anise and subtle oak spice complement Mediterranean herbs like rosemary and thyme, while the fine tannin structure can handle rich, slow-cooked dishes like braised short ribs or aged hard cheeses. The wine's elegance also allows it to pair beautifully with duck or venison.

Serve at 16-18°C to showcase the wine's aromatic complexity and fruit expression - too warm and the alcohol becomes prominent, too cool and the flavours mute. Decant for 30-60 minutes to allow the concentrated flavours to open up fully. While drinking beautifully now, this wine has the structure to cellar for 8-12 years, during which the tannins will soften and secondary flavours will develop.

Lifted perfume refers to the wine's aromatic intensity and complexity that literally 'lifts' from the glass when you smell it. This comes from the cooler ripening conditions preserving volatile aromatic compounds that would otherwise be lost in hotter climates. The result is a more fragrant, expressive nose with floral and spice notes that add elegance to the typical dark fruit character of Shiraz, making it more food-friendly and age-worthy.