It Wasn't Me Shiraz Cabernet 2022 South Australia

Product Description

The It Wasn’t Me range is produced by The Half Full Wine Company, based in South Australia. The winery focuses on creating organic, minimal-intervention wines with a straightforward approach. They use wild fermentation and avoid unnecessary additives, allowing the natural character of the fruit to shine through. The It Wasn’t Me Natural Red 2022 reflects this simple, honest style, offering a fresh, easy-drinking wine that’s also vegan-friendly.

Vineyards & Vintage Conditions

The grapes for this wine were sourced from ACO-certified organic vineyards in Loxton, Riverland, South Australia. This region is known for its warm, dry climate with long, sunny days and cooler nights, which help to maintain the fruit’s natural acidity and freshness. Low humidity throughout the growing season meant that the fruit remained healthy, with minimal disease risk. These ideal conditions supported the development of clean, balanced grapes, perfect for producing a vibrant natural wine.

Winemaking

The wine was fermented using wild, naturally occurring yeasts, with no added inoculants, fining agents, or other additives. It was made in stainless steel tanks to preserve the pure fruit flavours and freshness. The winemaking approach was deliberately simple and low-intervention, focusing on creating a wine that is lively, approachable, and true to its fruit.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep plum colour with a slightly translucent edge.

• Aromas: Fresh red berries, soft floral notes, sweet spice, hints of cedar, and graphite.

• Palate: Light to medium-bodied with soft, fleshy texture. Flavours of blackberries, mulberries, and subtle peppery and earthy notes. The tannins are gentle, and the acidity is bright, giving the wine a clean, balanced finish.

• Finish: Smooth, medium-length finish with a touch of spice and lingering dark fruit.

Food Pairing

This wine is a good match for relaxed, everyday meals. It pairs well with:

• Barbecue dishes

• Spicy roast vegetables (such as aubergine or chilli-based recipes)

• Pizza

• Grilled vegetables and soft cheeses

It also drinks well lightly chilled, making it an excellent choice for casual gatherings.

Awards & Accolades

• 90 Pts/Silver Medal – Wine Showcase Tasting

• 91 Points – Wine Enthusiast (Christina Pickard, April 2024)
  “A vibrant cherry juice colour with soft tannins, fresh red fruit, floral notes, and lively texture.”

• 86 Points – Aaron Brasher (October 2022)
  “Aromas of cooked strawberries, spice, cedar, and graphite. The palate is soft, fleshy, with sweet fruit and bright acidity.”

• 90 Points – Ken Gargett (November 2022)
  “Crimson red with soft floral aromatics and fresh red berries. Light, easy to drink, and perfect for casual nights. A second glass feels almost essential.”

Vintage Note