Region and Vineyards
McLaren Vale, located about 30 kilometres south of Adelaide, is one of Australia's oldest and most celebrated wine regions. Its unique position between the Gulf St Vincent and the Adelaide Hills creates a Mediterranean climate moderated by sea breezes and cool winds from the hills. This balance allows Shiraz to achieve ripeness without losing freshness. The region's complex soils, from deep clay to sandy loams, play a critical role in shaping the intensity and structure of its wines.
Vineyards in McLaren Vale range from sea level to 350 metres in altitude, with many dry-farmed old vines still surviving despite the vine-pull scheme of the 1980s. These old vine parcels, particularly in Blewitt Springs, produce fruit with concentration, fine tannins and aromatic lift. Shiraz dominates the region, producing wines of deep colour, pronounced dark fruits, and spice, which have become a signature style recognised worldwide.
Winemaking
The Footbolt Shiraz is made from 100% Shiraz, harvested between mid-February and May. Grapes are handled in small batches, crushed gently and transferred to traditional five-tonne open fermenters. Fermentation includes foot treading two-thirds of the way through, a nod to time-honoured methods that enhance extraction while maintaining elegance. Each parcel is kept separate until final blending.
Following fermentation, the wine is basket pressed and transferred to a mix of new and seasoned French oak barriques for 12-18 months. Barrel fermentation on lees enhances texture and depth. Importantly, there is no fining or filtration, preserving purity and authenticity of flavour. This meticulous process ensures balance between fruit intensity, savoury elements and subtle oak influence, crafting a wine with both generosity and refinement.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep crimson-purple with a ruby halo.
- Aroma: Fragrant notes of dark plum, blackberry, boysenberry, black pepper and hints of liquorice, layered with subtle mocha and cured meat tones.
- Palate: Rich and opulent with ripe plums, blackberries and boysenberries intertwined with red cherries, peppery spice, mocha and savoury charcuterie. Tannins are velvety yet firm, acidity bright, and oak seamlessly integrated, leading to a long, harmonious finish.
Did you know?
The wine takes its name from Joseph Osborn's racehorse, Footbolt, the pride of his stable. In 1912, Osborn sold his horses to purchase the land that became d'Arenberg, marking the beginning of a family winemaking legacy that continues under the fourth generation today.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Roast lamb with rosemary and garlic - the wine's spice and dark fruit beautifully complement the savoury richness of lamb.
- Grilled ribeye steak - velvety tannins and peppery notes balance the marbled intensity of beef.
- Mushroom and truffle risotto - the earthy depth and mocha nuances pair seamlessly with umami-rich mushrooms.
- Aged cheddar or Gouda - the wine's fruit intensity and structure harmonise with the savoury, nutty complexity of mature cheeses.
