Ministry of Clouds Onkaparinga Rocks Single Vineyard Shiraz 2020

Ministry of Clouds Onkaparinga Rocks Single Vineyard Shiraz 2020 is a refined and powerful Shiraz from the Onkaparinga subregion of McLaren Vale, South Australia. Ministry of Clouds, a boutique winery known for its minimalist winemaking philosophy, focuses on expressing the unique terroir of the vineyards they work with. This Single Vineyard Shiraz captures the essence of the Onkaparinga Rocks’ ancient soils, resulting in a wine of depth, complexity, and elegance. The 2020 vintage showcases balance between rich fruit and structure, making it an exceptional representation of McLaren Vale Shiraz.

Appearance: Deep garnet with a nearly opaque core, showcasing the wine’s richness and concentration.

Aroma: The nose is expressive and layered, with intense aromas of ripe blackberries, dark plums, and blueberries, alongside savoury notes of black olive, dried herbs, and cracked black pepper. Subtle hints of dark chocolate, graphite, and oak-derived spice such as vanilla and cedar add complexity.

Taste: Full-bodied and well-structured, the palate reveals rich flavours of blackcurrant, dark plum, and blackberry, supported by velvety tannins. Savoury elements of olive tapenade, black pepper, and earthy minerality provide depth, while the oak influence is integrated beautifully, offering hints of vanilla, cocoa, and spice. The wine’s fresh acidity keeps it balanced, ensuring a smooth and elegant mouthfeel.

Finish: Long and luxurious, with lingering dark fruit, spice, and a savoury, slightly smoky finish that speaks to the unique terroir of Onkaparinga Rocks.

Food Pairings: This Shiraz pairs beautifully with slow-cooked lamb shanks or grilled ribeye steak, where the wine’s bold structure and fruit intensity complement the richness of the meat. It also works well with game meats or a selection of hard cheeses, enhancing the savoury and earthy qualities of the wine.