With all the talk of resolutions in late December, January is a good time to take stock of accomplishments and pay tribute. At the iconic Australian winery d’Arenberg, they do this with wine (of course). This week’s pick is d’Arry’s Original Grenache Shiraz, a tribute to third generation family member Francis d'Arenberg Osborn, universally known as d'Arry. d’Arry passed away in December at age 95, so this is the perfect wine to honour his lifelong services to the Australian and international wine industry and to toast our own accomplishments and those of our friends and family as we embark on a new year.
Tasting Notes: As a blend of Grenache and Shiraz, floral notes are fused with red and black fruit, giving a bright, juicy palate, silky mouth feel, and long, lingering finish. It’s a classic d’Arenberg style.
Enjoy With: Smoked or grilled red meats, anything coated in your favourite barbeque sauce, grilled vegetables, and Manchego or smoked gouda cheese.
Style: A medium-bodied, fruity, red wine.
Terroir/Region: After a wet winter, the 2018 growing season in McLaren Vale was mild until things took a hot, dry turn in late January - remember, it’s mid-summer in Australia. February and March were warm and bone dry, helping control yields and concentrate flavours for juicy and full-flavoured wines. Is anyone thinking of a trip to Australia now?
Producer: Established in 1912, d’Arenberg has become one of Australia’s most enduring family-owned wineries, as well as one of the 12 members of Australia’s First Families of Wine. These days, the d’Arenberg team respects the past while preserving the future. All their estate-owned and leased vineyards are certified NASAA organic and biodynamic, making them the largest biodynamic certified wine grape grower in Australia!
Availability: d’Arenberg d’Arry’s Original Grenache Shiraz 2018 is available now in the Vintages section of your local LCBO as well as online. Pick up a bottle, or two if you have a lot of toasting to do!
Check LCBO store inventory
Price: $19.95
LCBO #: 942904
Size: 750 mL
Alcohol Content: 13.9% alc./vol.
