Winemaker Notes
Deep ruby color. Complex earthy notes combine with rich raspberry compote, aniseed and charcuterie on the bouquet. Lingering in the background is a hint of smoky cedar. Dense, rich fruit flavors of raspberry, blackberry and plum coat the palate initially before savory black olive leads into soft, fine-grained and lengthy tannins to finish. A full-flavored Shiraz!
Varietal Composition: 92% Shiraz, 5% Mataro, 3% Merlot
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Plenty of fresh mulberries, red plums and cherries here with cocoa powder and light, earthy notes, too. Plush, smoothly delivered red fruit on the palate with some gently spicy nuances and a succulent, bold finish. Drink or hold.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The near-textbook 2018 Basket Pressed Shiraz is a classic representation of McLaren Vale Shiraz. Scents of vanilla and menthol mingle easily with blueberries and black cherries on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is supple enough to offer present-day enjoyment, yet it's framed by firm tannins sufficient to warrant cellaring of up to a decade, if desired. A historic estate, Kay Brothers continues to turn out traditional wines of excellent quality.
Marked by an unmistakable deep purple hue and savory aromatics, Syrah makes an intense, powerful and often age-worthy red. Native to the Northern Rhône, Syrah achieves its maximum potential in the steep village of Hermitage and plays an important component in the Red Rhône Blends of the south, adding color and structure to Grenache and Mourvèdre. Syrah is the most widely planted grape of Australia and is important in California and Washington. Sommelier Secret—Such a synergy these three create together, the Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre trio often takes on the shorthand term, “GSM.”
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.