Reschke Armenta Coonawarra Shiraz 2016

Product Description

Winery Information
The Reschke Armenta Coonawarra Shiraz 2016 is a remarkable wine from Reschke Wines, a family-owned winery with a proud history in the heart of Coonawarra. For over 100 years, the Reschke family has been crafting wines that express the best of Coonawarra's unique terroir. The name "Armenta," meaning "herd" in Latin, is a nod to the family’s agricultural heritage, where cattle once roamed the region’s renowned terra rossa soils. This Shiraz is a perfect example of the family's commitment to creating high-quality wines that showcase the depth and character of Coonawarra.

Vintage Conditions
The 2016 growing season in Coonawarra brought ideal weather for Shiraz production. A long, sunny growing season was tempered by cool nights, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly. This slow ripening helped develop rich, complex flavours while maintaining the fresh acidity that is so characteristic of Coonawarra wines. The fertile terra rossa soil, coupled with moderate rainfall and well-timed irrigation, provided the perfect environment for the vines to thrive. As a result, the grapes were able to express both depth and elegance, giving this Shiraz a remarkable balance.

Winemaking
The Reschke Armenta Coonawarra Shiraz 2016 was crafted with care to highlight the best qualities of the fruit. After being hand-harvested at peak ripeness, the grapes underwent fermentation in temperature-controlled tanks to preserve the vibrant fruit character. Following fermentation, the wine was aged in French oak barrels, which added layers of complexity and smoothness. The oak influence is subtle but enhances the wine’s natural structure and depth. The result is a Shiraz that is well-rounded, balanced, and ready to be enjoyed, with the potential to age even further.

Tasting Notes
The Reschke Armenta Coonawarra Shiraz 2016 opens with a nose of dark fruit, such as blackberries and plums, complemented by hints of spice, chocolate, and subtle vanilla. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with soft, velvety tannins that create a smooth mouthfeel. The rich fruit flavours continue, with layers of black cherry, plum, and a touch of mocha, giving the wine a deep, multi-dimensional character. There is a lovely balance of acidity and oak that provides structure, leading to a long and satisfying finish. This wine is a perfect example of what Coonawarra Shiraz can offer—rich, complex, and wonderfully drinkable.

Food Pairing
This Shiraz is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. It pairs beautifully with red meats such as steak, roast lamb, or slow-cooked beef. It also complements rich game meats like venison or kangaroo. For something a bit different, try pairing it with hearty vegetarian dishes such as grilled mushrooms or a rich vegetable stew. A strong cheese, such as aged cheddar or blue cheese, also makes a perfect match for the bold flavours of this wine. The structure and balance of the Reschke Armenta Coonawarra Shiraz 2016 make it a great choice for a variety of flavoursome dishes.

Ratings and Reviews
The Reschke Armenta Coonawarra Shiraz 2016 has earned high praise from wine critics.

• 96 points from Wine Orbit

• 95 points and Gold Medal from Wine Showcase

• 93 points from Halliday Wine Companion

• 91 points from Wine Pilot

These accolades reflect the wine’s quality and the care taken in its production. It’s a wine that has not only impressed critics but is also a standout example of Coonawarra Shiraz at its best.

Vintage Note