d'Arenberg The Ironstone Pressings 2005

Most of McLaren Vale's acclaimed and ancient vineyard land is impregnated with ancient, decomposed laterite granite known as "Ironstone". Its extraordinary rusty red-brown color is derived from the iron oxides present in the stone. The larger pieces were cleared from the vineyard late last century and utilized in many of the buildings at d'Arenberg and in the district. It is indeed fitting that "Ironstone" is the first name given to this old Osborn family favorite as it helps, both above and below ground to produce d'Arenberg's traditional pressings wine.

The 2005 Ironstone Pressings, one of d'Arenberg's flagship icon wines, is expressive with aromas of red berries, spice, black cherry, plum and freshly cut flowers. The palate is immense and beautifully structured with layers of red fruits and exotic notes of spice, peppers, cherries, dark plum, blueberries and boysenberries. The finish is long and balanced with piquant tannin and acidity.

Blend: 70% Grenache, 25% Shiraz, 5% Mourvedre