Who makes it?

d’Arenberg The Innocent Weed. This wine is proudly organic. Of course, there is a story behind the name, with Chester Osborn naming wines, there usually is. The ‘weed’ in question, happens to be one with rather thorny seeds. However, it is one that does its part in adding nutrients to the soil hence it is very important.  From the handy illustration on the tasting note, I suspect it is a type of plant that produces large and sticky burrs.

While some of the newer wines have names that seem bonkers, such as The Cenosilicaphobic Cat Sagrantino Cinsault and Stephanie the Gnome with Rose Tinted Glasses Shiraz Sangiovese, the family remain respectful of their history. They have made sure that the new sits amicably beside the traditional offerings such as The Dead Arm Shiraz, The Coppermine Road Cabernet and the Ironstone Pressings. 

It is undeniable though, that under the current custodianship of Chester, d’Arenberg has continued to flourish. Notably, since 2019, the family also produce some biodynamic and organic wines, of which this is one.  

There is another GSM blend in their collection, and The Ironstone Pressings is one of their Icon trio. Along with The Dead Arm Shiraz, The Coppermine Road Cabernet Sauvignon. These three wines are staples in many a cellar and are reliable companions. Incidentally, the first vintage of The Ironstone Pressings dates back to the 1950s.

Here is a review of the 2016 vintage of the trio and here is a current review of  The Ironstone Pressings.

The Innocent Weed obviously has some pedigree behind it.

How do they make it?

The Innocent Weed is a GSM blend. It is nearly half and half Grenache and Shiraz with a small dollop of Mourvèdre as an embellishment. The fruit is all McLaren Vale grapes. After ferment, the wine spends around 12 months in French oak. It can reach rather higher alcohols depending on the vintage which is something to watch for.

What does it taste like?

This red blend is dry and typically purple hued. The fruit here tends towards blueberry and plum, with sprinkles of pepper, cinnamon and liquorice. It is fuller in body with shapely tannins and a fresh acid to keep it tight. The wine finishes on a minerally savoury spice note with some blackberry and earthiness. 

What to drink it with?

It goes without saying that red meats and pork will go very well here. Burgers, grills, kebabs, roasts. Also quiche and roasted chicken as well.  

Cheese

Mature hard and semi hard cheeses such as Manchego and Cheddar are good. A Saint Nectaire would be nice too. 

Quickie review « Quirky name aside, this family winery produces wines that are excellent quality for their value and rather irresistible. »

Country of Origin:  McLaren Vale, Australia
Tasting Date: Feb 2026
Price:  UK £14 | AU$26
Drink: now – 5+ years 
Needs food: no
Source: purchase

If you like d’Arenberg wines, why not check out:
d'Arenberg The Ironstone Pressings
d’Arenberg Peppermint Paddock
d’Arenberg The House of Pink
d’Arenberg Pollyanna Polly

If you want more information about d’Arenberg, please read:
The d’Arenberg Shiraz legacy

Visit darenberg for more.