Isolation Ridge Shiraz, Frankland Estate 2006

This family run estate, which began as a wool growing enterprise in 1974, started planting vines in the remote Frankland River region in 1988 and became certified as organic in 2009. The vines that produce this Shiraz grow in ‘Isolation Ridge’ which has been so named after a friend of the family jokingly commented on the remoteness of the vineyard. This wine undergoes a long, slow fermentation, with an extended maceration period for the gentle extraction of colour, flavour, and texture, and is then aged for 14 months in both 500 litre French oak puncheons and stainless steel tanks.

The result is a wonderfully balanced treat with subtle oak influences and ripe, well integrated tannins. A bouquet of blackberry, ripe black cherry, and clove spice is supported by hints of chocolate and black pepper on the medium-bodied palate; a perfect pairing for an array of meat dishes from lamb to charcuterie.