Picardy Shiraz 2023

Tasting Notes

• Colour
  Deep, vibrant crimson with purple hues.
• Aromatics
  Blackberry, dark plum and mulberry, with red cherry and raspberry peeking through. Layers of cool-climate spice, aniseed, cracked pepper, violet, cedar and a subtle earthy note.
• Palate
  Medium to full bodied with real presence. Concentrated black and blue fruits sit alongside red berries, liquorice, spice and a gentle savoury earthiness. The structure is firm yet refined, with fine-grained, chalky tannins and beautifully integrated oak guiding the wine along the palate.
• Finish
  Long, dry and persistent, showing power without heaviness and a lingering trail of dark fruit, spice and floral notes.

Winemaker’s Note

Picardy Shiraz is made using many of the techniques employed for their Pinot Noir, but with Shiraz as the foundation, aiming for a traditional old-world style. The wine typically includes about 4% Malbec and 2% Viognier, co-fermented to enhance colour, perfume, fruit sweetness and overall complexity. Notable hallmarks are excellent colour, pronounced fruit flavour, low pH (without harsh acidity) and fine-grained tannins that provide both structure and elegance.

Viticulture and Winemaking

• Region: Pemberton, Western Australia

• Varieties: Predominantly Shiraz with approximately 4% Malbec and 2% Viognier (co-fermented)

• Style: Elegant cool-climate Shiraz with old-world inspiration

• Winemaking Approach:

  • Co-fermentation of Shiraz with small portions of Malbec and Viognier

  • Gentle extraction to keep tannins fine and savoury

  • Matured in quality oak to add texture and subtle spice rather than overt wood flavour

Storage and Serving ❄️

• Serving Temperature: 16 to 18 °C

• Decanting: Strongly recommended in its youth. Give it 1 to 2 hours in a decanter to relax the structure and release the aromatics.

• Cellaring Potential: Enjoy now for its energy and power, or cellar for 10+ years as the tannins soften and the wine gains more savoury, truffle and leather complexity.

Food Pairing Suggestions 🍽️

• Slow-cooked lamb shoulder with rosemary and garlic

• Chargrilled rib eye or scotch fillet with pepper sauce

• Roast duck with plum or cherry glaze

• Mushroom and thyme ragù on polenta

• Aged hard cheeses such as Comté, Cheddar or Manchego

FAQ Wine Terms 🧐

Why add Malbec and Viognier to Shiraz?
A small portion of Malbec boosts colour, depth and mid-palate, while Viognier enhances aroma and adds a subtle silkiness to the texture.

What makes Pemberton Shiraz different from Barossa or McLaren Vale?
Pemberton’s cooler climate delivers more lifted florals, spice and freshness, with firmer, finer tannins and less jammy sweetness.

Is this ready to drink now?
Yes, especially with a good decant, but its structure and concentration mean it will really shine after a few more years in the cellar.