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Description
The 2023 Thistledown The Cunning Plan Shiraz is an excellent value McLaren Vale red, from Master of Wine duo Fergal Tynan and Giles Cooke, with local winemaker Peter Leske adding that authentic Aussie touch.
Sourced from the low-yielding vines of Moray Park in McLaren Flat, this Shiraz captures the essence of the region’s intense dark fruit and lively spice. Gentle, minimal-intervention winemaking allows the fruit to shine—whole berries are wild-fermented, and the wine is aged in French oak with just 10% new, preserving its vibrant character and structure.
The nose opens with ripe plum, blackberry, and a subtle wood-spice, while the palate brings lush fruit intensity, velvety tannins, and a hint of peppery warmth. This is a full-bodied, slurpable Shiraz with loads of charm, perfect for pairing with anything from a rich lamb stew to a night in front of the fire.
Known for their Grenache prowess, Thistledown has crafted a Shiraz that’s equally enticing: robust, balanced, and great bang for buck.
93 points
"Gee, I like this. It’s stylish and so nicely turned out. Touch and go for 94 points, and the best Cunning Plan to date, I reckon."
- Gary Walsh (The Wine Front)
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