The grapes for the 2006 McCall’s Shiraz were sourced from selected vineyards in the Riverina region of Australia. The Riverina region in New South Wales is one of the most prosperous grape growing regions in Australia, along with the Barossa Valley in South Australia. The region grows 15% of the total grape production within Australia and the region is Australia's largest producer of wine. The first grapes were planted in 1913 and Penfolds established their famous winery in the region in 1919. The grapes for this wine were harvested at night, destemmed, crushed and fermented on skins and gently pumped over to ensure maximum color and extraction of soft tannins required for this style. The wine was then drained and skins pressed in the air bag press. Malolactic fermentation was induced and the wine was left to mature in oak for a further 6 months (75% American oak, 25% French oak). Following a clarification this wine was filtered for bottling. The wine is a vibrant red with purple hues and a lifted red berry fruit aroma with a touch white pepper spice. The full bodied palate shows generous ripe fruit characters with underlying earthy tones and lingering sweet berry flavors. Aging in oak adds balance and softness to a long and enjoyable finish. Match with lamb and pork dishes. Only 256 cases produced.
