# Vivienne Shiraz Nouveau (2023)

- **Producer:** Empire of Dirt Wines
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Shiraz
- **Region:** Victoria, Australia
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 11.8%
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 10–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, raspberry, strawberry, red plum, black cherry

## About this wine

The 2023 Vivienne Shiraz Nouveau by Empire of Dirt Wines is a red, still wine from the Geelong region of Victoria, Australia. Produced from 100% Shiraz grapes, it is crafted in a Nouveau style, emphasizing immediate drinkability and fresh fruit characteristics. Winemaker Tash Webster founded Empire of Dirt, drawing inspiration from the Geelong landscape and personal experiences. The wine is noted for its lighter body, lower alcohol content, and versatility in serving temperature, distinguishing it from heavier Shiraz styles. The grapes are sourced from the Parklands Vineyard in the Moorabool Valley, a sub-region known for its cool climate viticulture.

## Interesting facts

- The wine is intentionally bottled early to capture its vibrant, fresh fruit character.
- It's designed to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
- The winemaker, Tash Webster, is a respected emerging talent in Australian wine.
- The name 'Empire of Dirt' is inspired by a Nine Inch Nails song.

## Food pairing

The wine's bright acidity and juicy fruit cut through richer dishes, while its low tannins make it versatile with lighter proteins. Its fruit-forward nature complements dishes with fruit elements or herbaceous notes.

## Wine making process

The 2023 Vivienne Shiraz Nouveau is produced using a Nouveau winemaking approach. The Shiraz grapes are sourced from the Parklands Vineyard in Moorabool Valley, Geelong. Following harvest, the grapes undergo a short maceration on skins for two days before pressing. Fermentation is carried out using indigenous yeasts, a technique that allows for a more natural expression of the grape's inherent characteristics. To preserve the wine's vibrant fruit freshness, it is bottled early. This method results in a wine with lower alcohol content and a style that is meant for immediate enjoyment, often served chilled.