Pertaringa 'Belonging to the Hills' Shiraz 2022

McLaren Vale's Mediterranean climate and ancient geological soils create ideal conditions for Shiraz, producing wines with exceptional concentration and complexity. This region is renowned for its ability to craft full-bodied Shiraz with rich chocolate and coffee notes, while maintaining the fresh berry characteristics that make Australian Shiraz so distinctive. The 'Belonging to the Hills' showcases these regional hallmarks perfectly with its dense dark fruit and vanillin softness.

The 2022 vintage in McLaren Vale was exceptional, earning recognition as a 'Killer Vintage' with 90-point ratings. This vintage produced wines with remarkable concentration and balance, allowing the preserved plum and dark forest berry flavours to shine through. The excellent growing conditions resulted in grapes with optimal ripeness and tannin development, contributing to the wine's full-bodied structure and impressive 95-point Wine Showcase rating.

The rich chocolate and coffee notes, combined with dark berry flavours, make this Shiraz perfect for robust dishes like grilled lamb, beef steaks, or slow-cooked game meats. The wine's full-bodied palate weight and vanillin softness also complement aged cheeses, barbecued ribs, and dishes with earthy mushroom or pepper-based sauces. The preserved plum characteristics add versatility for pairing with both savoury and slightly sweet glazed meats.

Bec Hardy represents the fifth generation of the legendary Hardy wine family, one of Australia's most iconic wine dynasties spanning over 160 years. Her winemaking expertise combines traditional family knowledge with modern techniques, creating wines that honour the Hardy legacy while expressing contemporary Australian wine excellence. The Hardy family's contribution to Australian wine culture is so significant they're considered as essential to wine as vegemite is to toast.

Serve this full-bodied Shiraz at 16-18°C to allow the complex chocolate and coffee aromas to fully express themselves. Decanting for 30-60 minutes before serving will help soften the tannins and enhance the dark berry flavours. Store bottles on their side in a cool, dark place at 12-15°C, and while delicious now, this wine has the structure to develop additional complexity over the next 5-8 years.