Bannockburn De La Roche Shiraz 2017

Bannockburn De La Roche Shiraz is a single-block Shiraz from a stony corner of the Moorabool Valley in Geelong.

The name is literal: 0.8 hectares planted in 2007 on a plateau of volcanic rubble above the De La Terre slope, effectively a westerly run-on from the Serré vineyard. Cuttings came from Best’s and Tahbilk, some grafted, some on their own roots, and Matt Holmes now bottles only the Best’s selection. The balance of the site went over to Chardonnay and became the close-planted Grigsby block, named for the estate’s long-serving vineyard manager. That single-clone discipline reads clearly in the glass, giving something more classical than the early releases off this ground. Wild yeast, 70 per cent whole bunches, a fortnight on skins, then hogsheads with 30 per cent new.

Dark-fruited and peppery, with graphite underneath and tannin that pulls tight instead of soft. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees in a big glass, decanted if it is young. Lamb shoulder, roast beef or a mushroom ragu will all meet it well.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.