Majella, Sparkling Shiraz, Coonawarra, Australia, 2021

Producer Profile

Majella are an absolute stalwart within our portfolio and regarded as one of Coonawarra’s, if not Australia’s, best producers with an abundance of awards to support this.

However, the effusive Brian ‘Prof’ Lynn would never brag. Self-depreciating to the end, he describes himself as the humble custodian of top quality vineyards on world-famous ‘terra rossa’ soils. Every step of production is engineered with sustainability in its heart. This combined with the immense talent of winemaker Bruce Gregory, has been the magic on which Majella’s reputation has been built; with their sparkling Shiraz reaching cult like status on both sides of the globe and their impeccable Cabernet Sauvignon listed in Langton’s Classification of Australia’s Best Wines.

Viticulture

Coonawarra lies only 60 miles inland, exposed to a maritime climate, with dry and moderately cool summers. Persistent cloud cover generally moderates the ripening period temperatures. The 'Terra Rossa' of Coonawarra is Australia's most famous soil, renowned for its affinity with Cabernet Sauvignon wines.

Winemaking

Primary fermentation was in 10 tonne stainless steel static fermenter's pumped over twice daily and finished in hogsheads. Secondary fermentation carried out in bottle on the lees for almost 12 months. The wine is then disgorged and a small amount of "liqueur" (sweetener) is added. In the true Aussie tradition they use some really fantastic vintage port.

Oak Ageing

Time: 6 months
Type: Second use French oak hogshead
% wine oaked: 100
% new oak: None

Tasting Note

One of Australia's best sparkling red wines. Full flavoured with a subtle balance of fruit and vanilla wood, hints of spice cinnamon and pepper with a presence of yeasty bread characteristics with soft acid balance to finish the palate.

Food Matching

It’s a great wine for any occasion, and goes well with most food styles particularly game, spicy foods and cured meats.