The 2017 vintage was exceptional in McLaren Vale, producing wines with remarkable concentration and balance. This Geddes Shiraz earned 95 points at the Australian Shiraz Challenge and a Gold Medal, reflecting the vintage's ability to deliver both power and elegance. The cooler conditions that year allowed for extended ripening, resulting in the deep black fruit character and complex spice layers you'll find in this bottle.

The 10% whole bunch fermentation adds structural complexity and a distinctive grip to this Shiraz. This traditional technique includes grape stems during fermentation, contributing savoury tannins, herbal notes, and a mineral backbone that enhances age-worthiness. It's what gives the wine its 'bunchy' texture and helps integrate the rich fruit with earthy, peppery elements for a more sophisticated drinking experience.

This wine's rich black cherry and plum flavours, combined with cedar and spice notes, make it perfect for hearty dishes like slow-cooked lamb, grilled ribeye, or game meats. The earthy undertones and structured tannins also complement mushroom-based dishes, aged cheeses, and barbecued meats. The wine's complexity means it can handle bold flavours and rich sauces without being overwhelmed.

With its structured tannins from whole bunch fermentation and French oak maturation, this Shiraz has serious cellaring potential of 8-12 years from vintage. The 2017 is drinking beautifully now, showing integrated oak and developed fruit complexity, but will continue to evolve and soften. If cellaring, store in a cool, dark place and expect the wine to develop more tertiary flavours like leather, tobacco, and dried herbs over time.

Geddes represents the artisanal approach to McLaren Vale winemaking, focusing on traditional techniques like selective hand-harvesting, basket pressing, and extended oak maturation in large French casks. Their 'slow way' philosophy prioritises quality over quantity, resulting in wines that express the true character of McLaren Vale's Mediterranean climate and ancient soils. This boutique approach has earned them recognition as one of the region's most respected small producers.