2019 Penny’s Hill Cracking Black Shiraz
  • 95

2019 Penny’s Hill Cracking Black Shiraz

McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
$17. 99
Bottle
$215.88 Dozen
Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)
ABV: 14.5%
Closure: Stelvin

The most interesting aspect of Penny’s Hill Malpas Road vineyard is a peculiar characteristic of the soil from which this wine's namesake is derived, due to the cracking black 'bay of biscay' soils. Since the site was planted in 1991, viticulturists have observed come summer, preceding vintage, that fissures occur as the black soil dries up. It literally cracks apart, severing any surplus root structure in the vine; a process which naturally lessens vine vigour and enhances fruit quality. To best reflect the variations in terroir across the vineyards and ensure that the fruit is picked at optimal levels of physiological ripeness, harvest of individual parcels occurs on different days. Maturation takes place in French oak barrels; approximately 15% new for a period of 16 months.

A lusty yet sturdy McLaren Vale Shiraz overflowing with rich black fruit.

Magnificent depth of colour featuring a saturated inky black heart with an equally deep dark red black hue. Engulfing the olfactory senses are aromatics of fresh blackberry, liquorice and dark plum which are trailed by vanillin cedar, subtle scorched earth and blackpepper notes. Boasting superb levels of richness and concentration for the price, lusty blackberry, liquorice and dark plum fruits engulf the full bodied palate. Opulent yet slightly chewy textural feel with vanillin oak, subtle earth and blackpepper characters flowing through onto the back half. Ripe, sturdy tannin structure with the long finish layered with a deep core of rich black fruit.
Exceptional value for money.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%