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THISTLEDOWN WINES Cunning Plan Shiraz, McLaren Vale

An aromatic nose of blueberries, dark cherry fruits, floral and spice notes. Medium to full bodied, blueberry, plum and dark cherry fruits burst onto the palate. Vibrant fruit combines with notes of red flowers, cacao and layers of cooking spice. The hallmark sandy/biscuity tannins of Blewitt Spring linger on the palate.

A special series wine from a prominent McLaren Vale winery isn’t something that’s easy to get your hands on. And we mean, sometimes this stuff can’t even be picked up when you bang on the doors of wineries themselves. This is intensely dense, which sounds just as smooth as it drinks. Heightened aromas of blackcurrant and black cherries waft enticingly from the decanter, which help to open this to its full potential. The oak influence is superbly balanced, helping to lift the marked quality of the fruit and give this beauty the longevity it deserves. Sometimes you say we spoil you mofos, and we’re starting to think that you’re right.

Stephen Pannell grew up in the wine industry as a member of the family which founded Moss Wood in 1967. Stephen's extensive knowledge and experience has been garnered over the years from his work with many of Australia's best wineries (including Wirra Wirra, Hardy's Tintara and BRL Hardy where he was Chief Red Winemaker from 1999 to 2003) and numerous vintages overseas at such places as Domaine des Comtes Lafon in Burgundy, Chateau Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux and G.D.Vajra in Barolo. Other highlights in Stephen's career include winning the title of International Red Winemaker of the Year at the International Wine Challenge in London, winning the Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy at the Royal Melbourne Wine Show, twice winning the Max Schubert Trophy at the Adelaide Wine Show as well as being listed as one of the 50 most influential contributors to the world of wine by Decanter Magazine.

Matured in a mixture of old French oak puncheons and large format oak for 10 months with 15% whole bunch inclusion. Deep black as night heart with a dark purple hue. Blossoming out of the glass are scents of freshly crushed blackberries, liquorice and black cherries followed by some fragrant fresh herb notes, fennel and peppered meats. Juicy blackberry, liquorice and dark raspberry fruits are layered across the medium bodied palate with infusions of herbs du Provence, scorched earth and pepper lying underneath. Polished tannin structure finishing with good freshness and a refined mid length aftertaste. Drink over the next 5-6 years. Alc. 14.3%