Spinifex Wines 'Bete Noir' Shiraz 2019

Winemaking and Drinking

The 'Bête Noir' Shiraz 2019 is a testament to the careful selection of vineyards and the meticulous winemaking process that Spinifex Wines employs. Spinifex Wines sources the grapes for the 'Bête Noir' Shiraz 2019 from select vineyards across the Barossa Valley, each chosen for its specific characteristics that contribute to the wine's complexity and depth. These vineyards benefit from rich, diverse soils and varying altitudes, which add layers of flavor and structure to the wine.

The Vineyard

The vineyards selected for the 'Bête Noir' Shiraz 2019 are situated in some of the most prized locations within the Barossa Valley. These sites were chosen for their ability to produce grapes with intense flavors and strong varietal character. The vineyards benefit from a mix of old and young vines, which contribute to the wine's complexity and depth.

The soil composition in these vineyards ranges from deep, fertile loams to rocky, well-drained sites. This diversity in soil types allows for the cultivation of Shiraz grapes with a variety of flavor profiles and structural elements. Additionally, the varying altitudes of the vineyards help to create a balance between ripeness and acidity, essential for crafting a well-rounded Shiraz.

The winemaking team at Spinifex Wines employs traditional and modern techniques to ensure the highest quality. The grapes are handpicked at optimal ripeness, and fermentation is carried out in small batches to maintain control over the process. The wine is then aged in a combination of new and old French oak barrels, which adds complexity and integrates the flavors seamlessly.

Tasting Notes

The 'Bête Noir' Shiraz 2019 offers a rich and complex tasting experience. In the glass, it presents a deep, inky purple color that hints at the wine's intensity. On the palate, this Shiraz is full-bodied and powerful, yet balanced with a finesse that is the hallmark of Spinifex Wines.

The wine opens with an explosion of dark fruit flavors, including blackberries, plums, and black cherries. These are complemented by secondary notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and a hint of licorice. As the wine breathes, it reveals more nuanced layers, such as earthy undertones, black pepper, and a subtle smokiness.

The Nose

On the nose, the 'Bête Noir' Shiraz 2019 is equally impressive. It exudes aromas of ripe black fruits, such as blackberry and blackcurrant, mixed with notes of violet and rose petals. There is also a distinctive spiciness, with hints of black pepper, cloves, and anise. The oak aging process imparts additional complexity, with subtle vanilla and toasted oak aromas weaving through the bouquet.

Awards and Recognition

The 'Bête Noir' Shiraz 2019 has garnered significant acclaim both domestically and internationally. It has been awarded high scores by several wine critics and publications, reflecting its quality and the skill of the winemakers. Some notable accolades include:

• Gold Medal at the 2020 Barossa Wine Show
• 94 points from James Halliday's Wine Companion
• 95 points from Wine Spectator
• Silver Medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards

These awards highlight the exceptional quality and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle of 'Bête Noir' Shiraz 2019.

The Spinifex Wines 'Bête Noir' Shiraz 2019 is a stellar representation of the Barossa Valley's winemaking prowess. With its deep, rich flavors, complex nose, and numerous awards, this wine stands out as a prime example of why Barossa Shiraz is celebrated worldwide. The careful vineyard selection and meticulous winemaking process ensure that each bottle of 'Bête Noir' Shiraz 2019 delivers a memorable and refined tasting experience.