THISTLEDOWN WINES Cunning Plan Shiraz, McLaren Vale

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.

Hand picked. 7 days on skins. 24 months of maturation in 1st- and 2nd-use French oak. The flavours is still in Blewitt Springs heartland. Dark plum, black cherry, blue berry, Asian herb, baking spice, anise, chocolate, toast oak and fresh acidity. Complex, rich, round and slickly made.

This is old vine McLaren Vale Shiraz skillfully blended with older vine grenache. The palate is full of spice and black fruits with an alluring undertone of red fruits dervived from the significant grenache content. This is the sixth release of this multi award winning red that is sure to please everyone in the room.

Tasting Notes Aroma Rich aromas of black cherry and ripe plum with lifted red fruits, hints of fresh herb and savoury oak derived vanillin spice. Palate The palate is medium to full bodied with dark fruit flavours, hints of wild herb and cedary spice. A perfectly balanced wine with generous fruit flavours and velvety tannins.