A blend of Blocks 6 and 9 form the 2011 Shiraz that is deep crimson with brick red hues. An array of different berry aromas surge from the glass - blackberry, blueberry and boysenberry - with trademark licorice and bitter dark chocolate promising to balance the sweet fruit.

The fruit dances across the palate with layers of cinnamon and nutmeg spice over creamy, mocha oak. Tannins are supple and velvety and the whole experience is underscored by a mineral earthiness.

An excellent example of how graceful McLaren Vale Shiraz can be in a cooler year.