McLaren Vale
This renowned McLaren Vale winery, not only boasts one of the most iconic cellar doors in Australia, it also has a rich family history.
Managing Director Francis d’Arenberg Osborn (known by all as d’Arry) is a third generation winemaker. Recently turning 95, d’Arry has completed 72 consecutive vintages having started making wine at the age of 16! d’Arry took over from his father in 1957 and soon after created the d’Arenberg brand with the famous red stripe. d’Arry’s wines instantly made an impact on the Australian wine scene. In 1984 d’Arry handed over the winemaking reigns to his son, Chester and it was Chester who came up with the idea to build the d’Arenberg Cube, inspired by the complexities and puzzles of wine-making.
Modelled on the world’s most iconic puzzle – the Rubik’s Cube, construction of the d’Arenberg cube was completed in 2017. Designed by Nick Salvati of ADS Architects and constructed by Sarah Construction, the spectacular d’Arenberg Cube cost more than $15m to build but is responsible for a significant increase in visitors to the region. The five levels have been carefully designed as a sensory experience and include luxury dining, art installations including a Salvador Dali Exhibition and wine experiences that challenge convention.
Each of the Cube’s five levels have been designed to entice and excite the senses, including a wine sensory room, a virtual fermenter, a 360 degree video room and many other tactile experiences.
Almost as well known for his loud shirts, curly locks and left of centre approach to life, Chester’s abilities as a winemaker are not to be underestimated. Since taking over as Chief Winemaker in 1984 he’s focused his efforts on producing high quality and distinctive wines. He has reduced yields in the vineyards by eliminating fertilization, minimizing irrigation and focusing on small batch winemaking with small open fermenters, basket pressing and foot treading. This has resulted in a range of premium wines including the iconic and internationally renowned The Dead Arm Shiraz.
TO CELLAR
The Dead Arm Shiraz – $76 per bottle
Brooding and alluring, plum, blackberry, liquorice and spice entwine with a raft of dark, earthy notes. The Dead Arm Shiraz shows all the hall marks of a classic McLaren Vale Shiraz that will see it age gracefully for 15 plus years.
The Ironstone Pressings Grenache Shiraz Mourvedre – $78 per bottle
On the palate there is an amazing fusion of red and black fruits that come together seamlessly. Plums, mulberries, blood orange and an assortment of red berries. There’s some freshness thanks to a little green capsicum and some Herbs de Provence. Silky, rounded tannins bring that element of elegance that we were promised. This is a delightful McLaren Vale GSM that can be enjoyed early in life but will cellar beautifully and evolve exceptionally into the future.
The Coppermine Road Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 – $78 per bottle
A long, lingering and persistent wine that sits with you for a long time. The exciting fine grain tannins have developed over time making for a wine that can be enjoyed now, but promises huge potential. Will cellar for 20 to 30 years, easily. A lovely wine on its own accord, but suggest pairing with a rich meat dish like lamb or steak.
JOIN THE CLUB
Formed to support those who fear an empty glass, the d’Arenberg wine club gets you access to wine discounts, invitations to special events, and access to limited edition and museum release wines. Join at darenberg.com.au/ceno-club
Discover more about the d’Arenberg cube, winery and purchase more fine wines at:
darenberg.com.au
