Paxton Vineyards Quandong Farm Shiraz

Wine information: Paxton Vineyards was formed in 1979 by Viticulturalist David Paxton, it is a family-owned business located in the McLaren Vale on the Fleuriel Peninsula. The McLaren Vale is renowned for the production of super premium quality wines – particularly red wines. In 2000 Paxton released their first wine, the 1998 Shiraz. Today, under the direction and guidance of Michael Paxton – David’s son and Paxton winemaker – Paxton produces seven estate grown wines under the family label. Paxton’s vineyards are spread across a wide range of sites and soil types and are managed by Senior Viticulturalist Toby Bekkers. All of the vineyards are managed using biodynamic principals (and are classified as organic as well) – a system of farming without the use of synthetic fertilisers and pesticides with a focus on promoting healthy, living soils through the use of natural compost preparations. Paxton Vineyards is also a member of One Percent For The Planet. Quandong Farm Shiraz is a single vineyard wine that aims to highlight the intensity and brightness of fruit grown using biodynamic techniques. The vineyard is located North of McLaren Vale in the celebrated Seaview Road sub-region. Shallow loam soil over limestone produces small yields of highly flavoured fruit. Quandong Farm has been the test-bed for the Paxton ‘smart farming’ programme that focuses on soil health, bio-diversity and non-chemical weed control. Bee hives on this property contribute to diversity, aid pollination and maximise seed production of our inter-row pastures. Natural compost preparations are used to enliven soils and are the basis for healthy grapevine growth. 100% Shiraz aged 10 months in oak barrels.

Tasting Notes: Paxton Vineyards Quandong Farm Shiraz is a deep plum colour. There are earthy, fruity notes with ripe, red berry and truffle notes. The palate is smooth and juicy. There are plum, berry and some mint notes with sweet tannins. The finish rich, long and spicy. Will reward cellaring for 3-7 years from vintage.

Food & Wine match: Try with pork ribs in plum sauce.

Reviews: "Delivers a good hit of up-front fruit flavour. One of those wines we would have called ‘forward’ in yesteryear; its medium-weight charms are front and centre and ready to enjoy now. It tastes of blackberry and loam, coffeed oak and spice. Fine, unobtrusive tannin completes the picture. Excellent ripeness and finesse on show here." Rated : 91 Points. Campbell Mattinson, Winefront, 4th February 2011.

"Has a complex multifaceted bouquet and palate, all the components true to the region: black fruits, dark chocolate and fine, savoury tannins on the long finish. Screwcap." 94 Points, James Halliday, Australian Wine Companion.

 
     

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