Wines McLaren Vale Down The Rabbit Hole Wines - 2022

This 2022 red wine from Down The Rabbit Hole Wines hails from the renowned McLaren Vale region in South Australia. Although the specific grape varieties are not detailed, McLaren Vale is famed for producing expressive, intensely flavoured red wines, often based on varieties like Shiraz, Grenache, or Cabernet Sauvignon, though blends and less common grapes are not unusual. The 2022 vintage, benefitting from the region’s expertise and favourable growing conditions, promises vibrant fruit character, supple tannins, and a generous, fruit-forward style, typical of McLaren Vale reds. Vinification generally focuses on preserving freshness and depth, resulting in a balanced wine that combines ripe fruit flavours with gentle oak influences for additional complexity.

McLaren Vale itself is a celebrated wine region with a viticultural history dating back to the 19th century. The area is characterised by a Mediterranean climate, with warm, sunny days and cooling sea breezes from the nearby Gulf St Vincent. This climate, paired with a remarkable diversity of soils — ranging from ancient clay and loam to sandy patches — allows winemakers to craft wines of great richness, depth, and aromatic expression. The region is particularly known for its sustainable viticulture and innovation, and its red wines continue to enjoy enthusiastic recognition on the world stage.

For food pairings, the generous and fruit-driven style of a McLaren Vale red lends itself beautifully to robust dishes. Consider pairing this wine with grilled meats such as lamb chops with rosemary, slow-cooked beef brisket, or a classic Australian barbecue. Mediterranean-inspired dishes like roast aubergine with tomato and herbs or a hearty ratatouille would also work well. For something local, a kangaroo fillet with bush pepper could create a truly regional experience.

To get the most from this wine, serve it between 16 and 18°C. Allowing the bottle a short time to breathe before serving will help to reveal its full aromatic potential and silky texture. This should provide an enjoyable sensory experience whether the wine is enjoyed now or cellared for a few more years.