Pikes The E.W.P. Reserve Shiraz 2021

Winery Background and History: Pikes Wines, established in 1984 by the Pike family, is located in the picturesque Clare Valley of South Australia. With a winemaking heritage that dates back to 1886, the family has a long-standing commitment to producing premium wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. Over the years, Pikes has garnered a reputation for crafting wines of exceptional quality, combining traditional techniques with modern innovations to express the distinct characteristics of their vineyards.

Producer and Winemaker: The Pikes winery is a family-owned and operated establishment, with the Pike family overseeing all aspects of production. The winemaking team is dedicated to producing wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Clare Valley, employing both traditional and modern techniques to achieve this goal.

Vineyards and Microclimate: Situated in the Polish Hill River sub-region of the Clare Valley, Pikes’ vineyards benefit from a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm days and cool nights. This diurnal temperature variation is ideal for the cultivation of Shiraz grapes, allowing for the development of rich flavors while maintaining balanced acidity. The soils in this area are predominantly red loam over limestone and slate, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the complexity of the wines.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used: 100% Shiraz

Vinification & Aging Methods: The 2021 E.W.P. Reserve Shiraz is crafted from carefully selected Shiraz grapes harvested at optimal ripeness. Fermentation occurs in small, temperature-controlled stainless steel fermenters to preserve the purity of fruit flavors. Post-fermentation, the wine is matured in a combination of new and seasoned French oak barrels for approximately 18 months. This aging process imparts subtle oak nuances and enhances the wine’s structural complexity, resulting in a well-balanced and elegant profile.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume): 14.5%

Tasting Notes: The Pikes E.W.P. Reserve Shiraz 2021 exhibits a deep garnet hue. On the nose, it reveals an aromatic bouquet of ripe dark fruits, including blackberries and plums, complemented by hints of sweet spice and clove. The palate is medium-bodied, offering a harmonious blend of rich dark fruit flavors and dark chocolate, supported by soft, silky tannins. Balanced acidity leads to a long, clean, and elegant finish, showcasing the wine’s refined character.

Food & Wine Pairing: This Shiraz pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes. Its rich and intense profile complements grilled or roasted red meats such as beef and lamb, as well as game meats like venison. The wine’s balanced acidity and fruit-forward nature also make it a suitable match for hearty stews and aged cheeses. For a classic pairing, consider serving it alongside a herb-crusted rack of lamb or a slow-cooked beef brisket.

Service Methods and Temperatures: To fully appreciate the nuances of the 2021 E.W.P. Reserve Shiraz, it is recommended to serve the wine at a temperature between 16°C and 18°C (60°F to 64°F). Decanting the wine for about 30 minutes prior to serving can help in aerating it, allowing the complex aromas and flavors to open up. Utilizing large, Bordeaux-style wine glasses will further enhance the tasting experience by concentrating the wine’s bouquet and directing it to the appropriate areas of the palate.

Storage and Aging Potential: When stored under optimal conditions—away from direct light, at a consistent temperature of around 12°C to 15°C (54°F to 59°F), and with controlled humidity—the 2021 E.W.P. Reserve Shiraz has the potential to age gracefully for the next 10 to 15 years. Over time, the wine is expected to develop additional layers of complexity, with tertiary flavors such as leather, earth, and dried fruits emerging, offering an enhanced and evolved tasting experience.