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The art of élevage is the skill of blending in the cellar, raising the potential of exceptional grapes to deliver something profound in the bottle. Meticulously blended parcels of wine, and the mystery of specially selected oak barrels deliver intense flavours, complexity and palate length. Intimate knowledge of the finest Shiraz vineyards in McLaren Vale and exquisite blending of barrel aged wines create a flavour sensation of blackberries, plum jam, cocoa, dark graphite and cedar wood characters leading a rich, smooth and concentrated palate enhanced by an expansive mouthfeel and velvety tannins. Balanced, decadent and extremely luxurious, this is a wine for serious celebrations.

THISTLEDOWN WINES Cunning Plan Shiraz, McLaren Vale

Thorpe & Smart Shiraz is a celebration of individuality, history and regionality from Yangarras estate vineyard in McLaren Vale. This wine pays homage to the prominent pioneering families of the region to be a true local you must either be a Thorpe or a Smart. The elevated blocks, with their variations of ancient soils and cool air flowing down from the nearby ranges, produce an elegant Shiraz with finesse. While full flavoured, there is intrigue of perfume, bright primary fruit, and soft silky tannins, pairing well with roasted red meat and aromatic spices.

Stephen Pannell grew up in the wine industry as a member of the family which founded Moss Wood in 1967. Stephen's extensive knowledge and experience has been garnered over the years from his work with many of Australia's best wineries (including Wirra Wirra, Hardy's Tintara and BRL Hardy where he was Chief Red Winemaker from 1999 to 2003) and numerous vintages overseas at such places as Domaine des Comtes Lafon in Burgundy, Chateau Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux and G.D.Vajra in Barolo. Other highlights in Stephen's career include winning the title of International Red Winemaker of the Year at the International Wine Challenge in London, winning the Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy at the Royal Melbourne Wine Show, twice winning the Max Schubert Trophy at the Adelaide Wine Show as well as being listed as one of the 50 most influential contributors to the world of wine by Decanter Magazine.