Gnarly Head Shiraz

Key characteristics:

Gnarly Head Shiraz is a vibrant, fruit-forward and full-bodied wine that marks a daring departure for Gnarly Head, venturing beyond its Californian roots to the old and gnarly vineyards of South Australia. This Shiraz embodies a bold character, showcasing the region’s ability to produce wines with exceptional quality and intense flavors.

Tasting Notes:

• Variety: 100% Shiraz
• Appearance: Deep and dark ruby red.
• Aroma: A vibrant, fruit-forward wine with bright red berry aromas, complemented by subtle toasty oak, spicy notes, vanilla, and rich floral hints.
• Taste: Ripe plum and luscious red fruit flavors dominate the palate, enhanced by a touch of vanilla spice. This full-bodied Shiraz features integrated and soft tannins, offering a smooth mouth-feeling and a lengthy finish with lingering oak influence.
• Region: Hailing from South Australia, the core of Australian wine, this region boasts iconic vineyards and ancient vines. Its Mediterranean climate, with warm days and cooling influences, allows Shiraz grapes to ripen beautifully while retaining freshness and complexity, resulting in wines that are both powerful and elegant.
• Pairing: This wine complements a range of dishes, from grilled lamb and beef tenderloin to roasted vegetables, tomato-based pasta, and aged cheddar or Gouda cheese.

Overall impression:

This Shiraz delivers a stunning and rich experience on the nose with a gorgeous, long-lasting finish on the palate, offering a soothing and comforting embrace. It is bold, flavoursome, and juicy, with a fleshy texture and silky tannins that contribute to a truly satisfying and memorable drink.

Extra notes:

• Gnarly Head wines began in 2004 with a vision for serious Zinfandel from Lodi, California, sourcing from “gnarly” old, head-trained vines. This Shiraz represents a “daring departure” for the winery, venturing into the renowned vineyards of South Australia.
• The wine undergoes ageing in stainless-steel tanks and seasoned barrels, contributing to a very balanced integration of oak flavors.