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. 

Tony Love

Journalist at Winepilot

Tony is best known for his 10 years as News Corp’s National Wine Writer, with weekly columns in major metropolitan mastheads throughout Australia including The Adelaide Advertiser, The Sydney Daily Telegraph and the Melbourne Herald Sun. He continues to write feature articles and columns for all the major Australian wine media publications. Tony has also worked as a restaurant reviewer, section editor, book editor, digital content provider, journalism teacher and was named Wine Communicators of Australia 2018 Legend of the Vine (SA). Find out more about Tony at tonylove.com.au

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