# Mother's Milk Shiraz (2022)

- **Producer:** First Drop Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Shiraz
- **Region:** South Australia, Australia
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black pepper, black plum, black cherry, blackberry, vanilla, chocolate, cloves

## About this wine

The Mother's Milk Shiraz from First Drop Wines, vintage 2022, is a 100% Shiraz from the Barossa Valley, South Australia. The wine's name reflects its lush, flavorful, and approachable character, designed for versatility. First Drop Wines, founded in 2004 by John Retsas and Matt Gant, is based in the Barossa Valley and aims to create wines that tell a story. The Barossa Valley is a renowned region for Shiraz, known for producing wines with depth and character. This particular vintage is noted for its vibrant fruit and balanced structure. The wine is also vegan-friendly.

## Interesting facts

- Consistently recognized on Wine Spectator's Top 100 list.
- Named 'Mother's Milk' for its lush, comforting, and flavorful profile.
- Embraces a 'no-sledgehammer' approach to winemaking.
- Vegan-friendly status.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and supple tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and game. Savory notes in the wine can echo herbs and spices in dishes, while its vibrant acidity helps to cut through fattier components, creating a balanced palate experience.

## Wine making process

The Mother's Milk Shiraz undergoes destemming and crushing before fermentation at 20-25°C for 6 days. Following fermentation, the wine is matured for 10 months in three and four-year-old French oak hogsheads. Malolactic fermentation occurs in French oak. The winemaking approach prioritizes purity and drinkability, with minimal oak influence to ensure the fruit character remains prominent.