Mr Riggs Burnt Block Shiraz 2021

The name is worth a mention to start with: a single block in Ben Riggs’s Piebald Gully vineyard in the Baker Gully district of the higher and cooler McLaren Vale sub-region of Clarendon. Planted in 1998, later that year a lightning strike led to fire burning most of the block, which was replanted the following year. The sub-regional influence in this Shiraz is obvious, deeply embedded cooler styling while still deliciously ripe fruit still rises in the palate: blue florals – violets – and subtle mint enunciate the aromas, darker plums and peppery spices colour the flavour profile. More important than all the intricate elements is the total expression – deeply thoughtful, satisfyingly tasteful, complete and engaging Shiraz.