Blewitt Springs, Ministry of Clouds Shiraz 2021

Ministry of Clouds, established by Bernice Ong and Julian Forwood, is a boutique winery in McLaren Vale, South Australia, known for producing expressive wines that reflect the unique terroir of their vineyards. The 2021 Blewitt Springs Single Vineyard Shiraz is a testament to their commitment to quality and site-specific expression.

The grapes for this wine are sourced from a single vineyard in Blewitt Springs, planted in 1960 on deep sandy soils. The vineyard's elevation and east-facing aspect contribute to the wine's aromatic complexity and refined structure. Hand-harvested and gently destemmed to preserve whole berries, the fruit underwent open fermentation with gentle plunging, followed by maturation in new and used French puncheons for 11 months.

Appearance: Dense inky black with a vivid dark red-purple hue, indicating concentration and youthfulness. The wine clings to the glass with slow, well-defined legs, hinting at richness and depth.

Aroma: Intense aromas of dark plum, liquorice, and ripe blueberry, interwoven with vanillin cedar, fennel, faint dark chocolate, and pepper notes. A delicate floral lift adds further elegance.

Taste: Rich, sumptuous, and plush in texture, featuring a silky flow of dark plum, blackberry, and liquorice fruits over nuances of fennel, vanillin cedar, and subtle dark chocolate. The wine possesses an underlying blueberry-like freshness with very polished tannins, adding both power and refinement.

Finish: Long and opulent yet refined, concluding with lingering dark fruit flavours, spice, and a balanced structure. The fine tannins and mineral freshness ensure a lasting, elegant finish.

Food Pairing:
Standing beef rib roast with duck fat potatoes and spring beans, where the wine's depth complements the richness of the dish.
Slow-roasted lamb shoulder with rosemary and garlic, as the wine’s spice and velvety tannins enhance the savoury and herbal notes.