# The Quickening Shiraz (2019)

- **Producer:** Thistledown Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Shiraz
- **Region:** South Australia, Australia
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €38
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, dried flowers, black cherry, thyme, sage, black pepper, raspberry, blackberry, vanilla, cloves, menthol

## About this wine

The Thistledown 'The Quickening Shiraz' 2019 is a 100% Shiraz from the Barossa Valley, South Australia. The wine's name reflects the vivifying power of nature and the energetic expression of the Barossa, inspired by the challenging vineyard conditions. Thistledown Wines, founded by Masters of Wine Giles Cooke and Fergal Tynan, aims to create precise wines that capture the essence of their vineyard sites. The 2019 vintage was marked by dry conditions, which concentrated the fruit. A significant portion of the fruit comes from Joel Mattschoss's Eden Valley vineyard, situated at approximately 500 meters above sea level on difficult soils, contributing to the wine's distinct character.

## Interesting facts

- Fruit sourced from a vineyard planted on challenging ironstone and quartz soils.
- Vine yields as low as 2 tonnes per acre.
- Wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered.
- Name 'The Quickening' inspired by vine struggle.

## Food pairing

The wine's structure and fruit profile make it a versatile partner for rich, protein-heavy dishes. The tannins in the Shiraz complement the protein in red meats, softening as they interact. The dark fruit notes can echo or contrast with fruit-based sauces, while herbal undertones in the wine can be enhanced by herbs in the dish.

## Wine making process

The Thistledown 'The Quickening Shiraz' 2019 is produced using 100% Shiraz grapes. Fermentation is typically wild, with a portion of whole bunches included. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes an 8-month aging period in French oak, with about 20% of the oak being new. The wine is then bottled unfined and unfiltered. The 2019 vintage was characterized by very dry conditions, which concentrated the fruit. Fruit for this wine is primarily sourced from Joel Mattschoss's Eden Valley vineyard, located at around 500 meters altitude on challenging soils.