Both wines in this flight display deep concentration and a tannic backbone. The difference in style comes in the use of oak and the display of acidity. The Thorn-Clarke exudes oak while the d’Arenberg Magpie is enhanced by acidity to make it a gem with food.
Thorn-Clarke Barossa Shotfire Shiraz 2006
Sourced from the family’s Kabiningie Vineyard on the floor of the Barossa, just south of Tanunda. Aged over 12 months in French and US oak, 40% new. Winemaker Derek Fitzgerald. Produced in Angaston 14.3% $13.99 at Bottle Barn Thorn-Clarke
d’Arenberg McLaren Vale The Laughing Magpie 2005
94% Shiraz and 6% Viognier, co-fermented and trodden on by humans in boots. Aged 12 months in US and French oak. Winemaker Chester d’Arenberg Osborn 15% $24.95 at Traverso’s d’Arenberg
