Ulithorne ‘Familia’ McLaren Vale Shiraz 2018

Everything we suggested about the ‘Immortelle’ being in the perfect place to succeed applies just as much to this wine. You could put money on it (and we suggest you do just that, squirreling a few away in the cellar). Made by way of fermentation in a mix of small open fermenters and static fermenters, before pressed to barrel for ten months maturation.

Deep magenta in colour, this does need time in the glass to open up. Initially, it is tight, taut, tense and muscular. With a little time, we have a glorious cornucopia of aromas – coffee bean, chocolate, blackberries, mulberries and more. The palate is also looking very impressive. Good acidity runs the length and more dark chocolate notes become apparent. This is moving right into classic McLaren Vale Shiraz territory, although that is hardly surprising. Good length and the intensity is maintained for the full journey. A long future awaits any bottles well cellared. A cracker.