# Grounded Cru McLaren Vale Cabernet Shiraz (2023)

- **Producer:** Grounded Cru
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz
- **Region:** South Australia, Australia
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €17
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** eucalyptus, dried herbs, blue flowers, blackberry, plum

## About this wine

The Grounded Cru McLaren Vale Cabernet Shiraz 2023 is a red wine from South Australia, a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Shiraz. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are sourced from vines over 70 years old in Grounded Cru's own vineyards, while the Shiraz comes from partner vineyards in McLaren Vale, also featuring old vines. Grounded Cru, founded by winemakers Geoff Thompson and Matt Jackson, focuses on producing high-quality, small-batch wines that express the character of premium South Australian regions. The winery has been recognized as a 5-Star Winery in the Halliday Wine Companion since 2020. The name 'Grounded Cru' reflects the winemakers' values of connection to the land and quality vineyard sites.

## Interesting facts

- Grapes come from vines over 70 years old.
- Grounded Cru is a 5-Star Winery in Halliday Wine Companion.
- The wine is vegan-friendly.
- Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels.

## Food pairing

The full body and robust tannins of this wine stand up well to rich, protein-heavy dishes. The dark fruit notes in the wine complement the savory flavors of red meats, while the subtle herbal undertones can echo seasonings used in the dishes.

## Wine making process

The Grounded Cru McLaren Vale Cabernet Shiraz 2023 is produced from grapes harvested at optimal ripeness. Following harvest, the grapes underwent fermentation with their skins for eight days. After fermentation, the wine was pressed and transferred to 300-liter French oak barrels for an aging period of 18 months, with 15% of the barrels being new. The blend consists of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Shiraz, with the Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from vines over 70 years old and the Shiraz from old vines in partner vineyards.