THISTLEDOWN WINES Cunning Plan Shiraz, McLaren Vale

The Syrah (Shiraz) is made with traditional winemaking using natural yeast fermentation over a four week period with 18 months barrel maturation in 20% new French oak. Intense dark cherry and mulberry fruits are allied to cedar and roasted spice aromas. The complex palate provides tannins of supple texture with a lingering length of flavour persistence. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.

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.

Matured in a mixture of old French oak puncheons and large format oak for 10 months with 15% whole bunch inclusion. Deep black as night heart with a dark purple hue. Blossoming out of the glass are scents of freshly crushed blackberries, liquorice and black cherries followed by some fragrant fresh herb notes, fennel and peppered meats. Juicy blackberry, liquorice and dark raspberry fruits are layered across the medium bodied palate with infusions of herbs du Provence, scorched earth and pepper lying underneath. Polished tannin structure finishing with good freshness and a refined mid length aftertaste. Drink over the next 5-6 years. Alc. 14.3%