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The Old Vine Syrah patch was planted in the 1930s and is on a slope of the property with a westerly aspect. These old gnarly vines are planted in heavily decomposed ironstone and quartz. The style of wine is completely individual and the winemaking team always comment on how light the style is and how exotic the spices are in this vineyard. The spices come across like incense mixed with deeply aromatic and smoky lapsang oolong tea. Exotic characters such as sandalwood, cocoa powder, sarsaparilla and cola elements top the roast meat and flinty, strawberry and cream palette of this wine. The lighter frame on this style is highly attractive and the intoxicating spices combine to create something highly exotic.

Name With our love for the ocean and the stunning coastline on the cusp of McLaren Vale being a massive draw card to calling this fantastic little town home it made sense to link the name of our Reserve Shiraz to it. The Squid Ink name originated from the enticing first impression of the black, dye like depth of colour this wine resonates. Vineyard Our Squid Ink vineyard is the epitome of what defines one of the greatest vineyards in Australia where the famous Black Bay of Biscay Clay soil ensures fantastic fruit. Referred to by some local friends as ‘Mayfair’ the use of sustainable viticulture and having true respect for the value of our vineyards and the fruit they create. Winery In the winery the Squid Ink Shiraz fruit is treated with utmost respect, ensuring quality from start to finish. Fermented slowly for gentle extraction of colour, flavour and tannin, the wine is monitored closely. Following fermentation, the wine is then matured in the finest of predominantly new American oak with the 2021 seeing 60% new oak Hogheads for 18 months. Maturation 18 Months in American Oak, 60% new oak Colour Deep intense dark, almost black with a purple hue. Nose There’s a depth of concentration here only seen in some year and here I think it’s reminiscent of the 2010 or 2015 vintage. The complexity seeks several sniffs to grasp. Undeniably intriguing the earthy, savoury character lingers awaiting full expression from a little more time all while tightly embraced with layers of fruit. Palate Like the nose this wine pulls you in for more. The palate is timeless, with a firm but grounded texture the all-encompassing finish drives the wine across the mouth, leaving a full, expressive and delicious lasting experience. This wine is what we believe to be a true representative of Shiraz from our region. As an Estate owned, sustainably grown, single vineyard Shiraz, we have the ability to deliver a world-class wine consistently that is truly at the top of its game. This wine, like our lives, is wonderful in youth, but with patience and development of the wines fruit, along with the integration of the finest of oak this wine will also develop wonderfully. Potential 15+ years.

McLaren Vale’s Mediterranean climate and diverse soils contribute to the wine’s complexity, allowing the Octavian Shiraz to showcase ripe blackberry, plum, and mulberry notes, often complemented by undertones of dark chocolate, liquorice, and a subtle savoury edge. The palate is typically smooth and structured, with velvety tannins and balanced acidity, ensuring both immediate drinkability and cellaring potential. The influence of French and American oak adds depth and gentle spice, while the careful winemaking approach preserves the fruit’s purity and regional character.