The Sardanapalian Shiraz

d'Arenberg The Sardanapalian Shiraz is grown in a single vineyard estate block in McLaren Vale. It takes its name from the last king of Nineveh (an ancient city of Iraq), whose decadence is believed to match this wine.

Small batches of grapes are gently crushed and transferred to open fermenters. The batches remain separate until final blending. Foot treading is started two thirds of the way through fermentation.

The wine is basket pressed and transferred to new and seasoned French oak to complete fermentation. It ages on lees for 20 months. There is no racking until final blending, and no fining or filtration.

Inky crimson, d'Arenberg The Sardanapalian Shiraz has opulent fruit flavours, spicy character and rich silky tannins. Cellaring potential is 20 years.