d'Arenberg, "Stump Jump" Shiraz, South Australia, Australia, 2017

Overview of the Wine
d'Arenberg is one of the undisputed kings of Australian Shiraz and other Rhone varieties that have historically defined the region. A century on, their vineyards have grown to some 450 acres in McLaren Vale, including Shiraz dating back to d'Arenberg's first plantings in 1912, and nearly one-third of McLaren Vale's old bush-vine Grenache. Fourth generation winemaker, Chester Osborn, recently converted all of the family's vineyards to organics and biodynamics and moved to solar energy in the winery. All the while, in terms of winemaking, not much has changed--all the wines are basket-pressed, the reds foot-trodden during fermentation; everything is done in small batches, leading to an impressive array of bottlings every year, each showing a different facet of McLaren Vale terroir. Having been inducted into Wine & Spirits Magazine's Hall of Fame for earning a place on its Top 100 Wineries nine times, this accolade is a reflection of d'Arenberg's revered reputation worldwide.

Grape / Blend
Shiraz

Origin
South Australia, Australia

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
The wine starts out with a deep ruby color. On the nose, the wine is full of cherry and blackberry fruits, which continue on the palate. What sets this Shiraz apart is the intensity of this ripe fruit, which is just as intense on the finish as when the wine first hits your tongue. The finish has a mineral-graphite edge that balances the fruit nicely.

91 Points - Wine Enthusiast
This is a strong bottling of this Cabernet-dominant red blend. There’s a slight funk at first, which quickly blows off to reveal aromas of mint, tomato stem, iodine, pencil shavings and warm clay, all weaving through puckered, sunkissed fruit. The palate is big and broad yet raspy and a little on the warm side alcohol-wise. It avoids being syrupy, however, thanks to a lifted line of acidity and a grip of sinewy, spicy tannins. Shows variety and place expression at an affordable price point.

Top Value - Ian Blackburn  

A great value!  Balanced, good nose, good mouth, nice and clean - no issues.  I love this for a daily bottle - maybe the best value in wine we can find.

Product size: 750ml