# Don't Tell Gary Shiraz (2021)

- **Producer:** McPherson Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Shiraz
- **Region:** Victoria, Australia
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €17
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, blackberry, blackcurrant, black cherry, cloves, vanilla, cedar, chocolate, butter

## About this wine

The Don't Tell Gary Shiraz from McPherson Wines is a 100% Shiraz from Victoria, Australia, with grapes sourced from the Grampians region. The wine's name originates from a story where winemaker Jo Nash pursued a premium oak aging strategy without immediate financial oversight, highlighting it as a personal project. McPherson Wines, a family-owned establishment since 1968, is known for its adventurous approach to winemaking in Central Victoria, emphasizing fruit purity and minimal intervention. The 2021 vintage benefited from the region's conditions, allowing for the development of the wine's character.

## Interesting facts

- The wine's name, 'Don't Tell Gary', is a nod to a secret winemaking experiment.
- It was aged in 80% new French oak puncheons for 12 months.
- McPherson Wines has been making wine since 1968.
- The grapes come from a 30-year-old single vineyard in the Grampians.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein in red meats, while its fruit-forward character can stand up to robust flavors and sauces. The oak influence can also harmonize with grilled or roasted elements.

## Wine making process

The Don't Tell Gary Shiraz is produced using minimal intervention techniques. The grapes are gently crushed, and fermentation includes malolactic conversion. A significant portion of the wine is aged for 12 months in 500-litre French oak puncheons, with 80% of these being new. This aging process is a key element in shaping the wine's character and structure.