Winemaker Notes
Both Grenache and Shiraz once called the Rhône Valley home, but after over a hundred years in McLaren Vale, they are pretty well settled here!
Once picked, the fruit is gently crushed in our ‘Demoisy' open mouthed, rubber toothed crusher and pumped into submerged cap open fermenters. Following fermentation, The Stump Jump Grenache Shiraz is gently pressed by our 19th Century "Coq" and "Bromley & Tregoning" basket presses prior to oak maturation.
This is a rich, soft and flavoursome red in the traditional McLaren Vale style. Mulberry and plum flavours from the Grenache combine with the blackberry, spice and white pepper of the Shiraz. Best served at room temperature, this wine will gain added complexity with careful cellaring over the next 2 – 5 years.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.