# Gorgeous Shiraz (2021)

- **Producer:** Thistledown Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Shiraz, Zibibbo
- **Region:** South Australia, Australia
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, raspberry, black cherry, elderflower, violet, grape, strawberry, vanilla

## About this wine

The Thistledown Gorgeous Shiraz 2021 is a red wine from South Australia, specifically the Riverland region. It is primarily made from Shiraz grapes, with a small proportion of Zibibbo co-fermented. The wine is named 'Gorgeous' to reflect its appealing and enjoyable nature, representing an unconventional approach to Shiraz. Thistledown Wines, founded by Masters of Wine Giles Cooke and Fergal Tynan, focuses on crafting detailed wines from special vineyard sites. The 2021 vintage benefited from a mild and measured growing season in South Australia, characterized by adequate rainfall and a long ripening period, contributing to the wine's balance and fragrance.

## Interesting facts

- Co-fermented with Zibibbo for added perfume.
- Made from very old vines in the Riverland.
- Named 'Gorgeous' to highlight its delightful character.
- A 'left-field take on Shiraz' by Thistledown.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and smooth tannins are well-suited to complement the protein in dishes like lamb and beef, preventing the wine from being overwhelmed. The vibrant acidity can cut through richer elements, while the wine's inherent fruit notes can echo or contrast with savory and herbaceous elements in the food.

## Wine making process

The Thistledown Gorgeous Shiraz 2021 is produced using co-fermentation, where Shiraz grapes are fermented alongside a small proportion of Zibibbo (Muscat) using wild yeasts. This technique is employed to integrate the aromatic qualities of the Zibibbo into the red wine. Following fermentation, the wine is given a short aging period in old French oak barrels. This is followed by bottling at a young age to preserve its aromas and texture. The grapes are sourced from very old vines in the Riverland region of South Australia. Thistledown Wines is a certified member of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia.