THISTLEDOWN WINES Walking With Kings, McLaren Vale A Rhône inspired white which takes the richly textured Roussanne and blends with the crisp, green apple and citrus of Grenache Blanc to create a wine of real balance and complexity. Hand-picked Roussanne from Sellicks Hills, biodynamic Grenache Blanc from Kangarilla. Both varieties are hand picked and fermented separately. Roussanne is whole bunch pressed, lightly settled and wild fermented in French oak. Grenache is oxidatively handled prior to wild ferment in barrel. The two components blend prior to bottling.

Clarendon Hills is a small family owned winery which produce wine to the highest standard. The shiraz range is a varied as it is outstanding, from the Bakers Gully all the way to the iconic Australis. The Kiandra shows mid-palate depth and balanced complexities watermark the potential life span and enjoyment window for this cuvee. This class is highlighted by its potential to be enjoyed now or cellared confidently for 25 years.

Wirra Wirra's flagship Shiraz has won many accolades over the years, including the 'world's best Shiraz'. It's loaded with distinctive McLaren Vale blueberry and chocolate characters, supported by plums, violets and spice, and tannin structure destined for 10 more years in the cellar.

Sharktooth is an apt name of this wonderfully balanced wine. Razor sharp flavours of dark mulberry and blackcurrant are sliced by a freshness and vibrancy not often seen in full-bodied wines from McLaren Vale. A supreme example of modern Australian red winemaking is on display here and despite the unctuous concentration this wine dances across the palate and leaves you with a delightful length of flavour.

The Prospera displays a dark ruby-red colour tinted with a crimson rim. On the nose, the aromas are brimming with plentiful ripe fruits of cherry and strawberry, followed by fine spices and florals. The palate presents a fruit-driven wine with characters of fresh cherry and juicy plum, ascended by hints of cinnamon and liquorice.

This wine forms part of Clarendon Hills 'Grand Cru' classification and is the ultimate expression of Grenache for the winery. Something to keep an eye on over the next 20 years.