2016 Bannockburn Douglas Red Shiraz, Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot, Geelong

Named after Sir James “The Black” Douglas—a Scottish knight and feudal lord and one of the chief commanders during the Wars of Scottish Independence—this idiosyncratic blend tells a multi-variety story of Bannockburn’s vineyards each year, often composed of grapes from all three properties. This year's blend weighs in at 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Pinot Noir and 4% Merlot. The varietal batches of fruit were wild-fermented separately, pressed to seasoned hogsheads for fifteen months élevage, then racked and the three wines blended together in August 2017. Matt Holmes’ note below absolutely nails this complex, savoury and unique wine.

“Deep crimson, black olives, cherry, dark chocolate, delicately scented violets, fine powdery tannins, a medium-bodied palate weight and satisfying length.”