Wolf Blass Platinum Label Shiraz 2016

VINEYARD REGION Medlands Vineyard, Dorrien, Barossa Valley

VINTAGE CONDITIONS The 2016 vintage at Medlands started out with a drier than average winter, followed by a warm, dry spring and early-summer, with good conditions for flowering and fruit set. January and February were mild, with welcome rain in late January slowing ripening. This allowed for early lignification of seeds and stalks, with
development of rich, bright flavours, dense colours and ripe tannins.

Rating: 95 points from James Halliday

GRAPE VARIETY Shiraz

MATURATION After fermenting to dryness on skins, the wine was pressed and racked to 72% new and 28% one-year-old French oak barriques for 20 months’ maturation, enhancing complexity, elegance, length and structure.

COLOUR Deep, rich purple.

NOSE Characteristic lifted fruit aromas of blueberry, blackberry, boysenberry and blood plum unmistakably express the Medlands Vineyard terroir, with underlying savoury notes of bittersweet chocolate, freshly ground coffee and warm, fragrant oak spice adding intricate layers of complexity.

PALATE Complex and opulent, with the fine, layered structure, elegance and finesse
we have come to expect of the Medlands Vineyard. The palate is laden with pure, rich, dark berry flavours, given tight focus with fine, spicy French oak. A sleek, silky texture,
definitive tannin line, and lingering finish give rise to a wine of grace, stature and presence.

Winemaker: Steven Frost

Peak Drinking: 2019 to 2046. This wine will mellow and develop with age to reward many years of careful cellaring.

FOOD MATCH: Great with chargrilled beef with garlic mashed potatoes