97 Points - Sam King, Wine Orbit. The Lou Miranda Estate in the southern Barossa Valley is blessed with a small block of Mataro (Frances Mourvèdre) that was planted in 1898. These ancient, exceptionally low-yielding vines produce a tiny amount of wine a yield that was reduced even further in the heat of the brilliant 2018 vintage. The little that was made was blended with Shiraz to create one of the best premium Australian red wines. Post-fermentation it was given three years ageing in seasoned American oak which tamed the Mataros rounded, but profound tannins while adding spice to the plump Shiraz. To keep as much of the wines character as possible, only the lightest of filtering and fining was done which has further extended this majestic wines life.

Wine Press Rating

97 Points - Sam King, Wine Orbit (2018 Vintage)

94 Points - Ned Goodwin MW (2018 Vintage)

Taste

The Lou Miranda Estate Shiraz - Mataro 2018 offers an amazing tasting experience. Wonderfully dark with vivid highlights of ruby and cranberry, the palate is plump, rich, and heady. Blackberries, cassis, and tangy raspberries lead the charge, all of which are undercut by mint, peppers, and Mataros signature scorched earth tone. Toward the finish flavours of plum conserve, mocha, toast and eucalyptus emerge adding persistence and freshness. Pair this mighty, rare-release wine with truffle pasta, beef wellington, pan-fried liver or a hearty blue cheese tart.

About the Producer

Lou Miranda is a family-owned boutique producer located in the heart of Australias famed Barossa Valley. Now run by Lou and his three daughters Lisa, Angela and Victoria, their winemaking philosophy is simple but successful, You can only make great wine with great fruit. The family see themselves as custodians of exceptional vineyards, some of which date back to 1898. These receive high levels of manual care, while in the winery intervention is kept to a minimum to promote their wines natural beauty. Their approach has seen them win dozens of awards and earn a global reputation for excellence. Lou Mirandas Fierce III range offers an affordable taste of top-flight Australian wine and should be in every wine lovers cellar.