Who makes it?

The Hedonist Shiraz offers many things to many people. It is made from grapes from biodynamic vineyards in McLaren Vale, a region known for its soft, juicy, immediately approachable shiraz. The Clappis family are committed to making their McLaren Vale fruit shine right across their range which is focused on red wines made not only from traditional regional treasures, shiraz and cabernet sauvignon but also tempranillo and sangiovese (including a sangiovese rosé).

How they make it?

A portion of the biodynamic fruit was whole bunch fermented and added before being matured in new and seasoned French oak for 12 -16 months. The barrels are both large Foudre and small barriques. The oak takes on a support role and leaves the lush fruit to shine.

What does it taste like?

In its bright ruby and purple tinted depths, there is plenty of peppery, spicy black berry, blackcurrant fruit up front. This moves seamlessly to a blueberry and liquorice finish. Having now tasted multiple vintages on release, this wine is a consistent performer. The powdered tannins shape the mouth and adds flesh to the body. The wine holds nothing back, yet, it does not overwhelm in any way. 

Whether you are after a wine that treads lightly on the ground, or should I say, vineyard, a wine that offers up the best of the McLaren Vale, or one that is simply delicious drinking for not a lot of cash, this wine gives generously indeed. I have watched the smile effect in action, this wine is hard to put down.

What to drink it with?

There is a moreishness to this wine. It has the ability to match widely and not just with meats, but also with tomato based vegetarian dishes. I still cannot go past a chunky pie though with a flaky pastry top. 

Cheese

An aged nutty cheese such as cheddar, gouda, pecorino or manchego.

Quickie review «This wine is an example of how good McLaren Vale shiraz can be.  That it is a biodynamic wine makes it such an easy choice. »

Country of Origin: McLaren Vale, Australia
Tasting Date:  November 2020, October 2024
Price (750ml):  UK £14  | AU$26
Drink: now – 5 years
Needs food: no
Source: purchase

Like the sound of this wine, maybe you’d also like:
D'Arenberg Ironstone Pressings
Henschke Henry's Seven
 Ochota Barrels Fugazi Grenache.

Visit hedonistwines.com.au for more.

Published 1st December 2020 and updated 31st March 2025