Region and Vineyards
The Lady's Lane Shiraz is rooted in the Pyrenees, a lesser-known yet remarkable wine region in western Victoria, Australia. Despite being overshadowed by regions like Barossa and McLaren Vale, the Pyrenees offer a dramatically different terroir, marked by elevated sites and cooler temperatures—ideal for nuanced expressions of Shiraz.
The vines here flourish on iron-rich red soils dating from the Cambrian Period, believed to be over 500 million years old. These well-draining, mineral-laden soils provide a distinctive structural backbone and mineral tension to the wine. The climate is continental with marked diurnal shifts, allowing the Shiraz grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, preserving natural acidity and phenolic complexity.
Domaine Tournon, Michel Chapoutier's ambitious project in Australia, seeks to faithfully interpret these ancient Australian terroirs through the lens of biodynamic viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking. The Lady's Lane site, in particular, is a low-yielding vineyard that delivers fruit of exceptional concentration and precision.
Winemaking
This 100% Shiraz is hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, with meticulous attention to avoiding overripeness—a key factor in retaining the wine's freshness and elegance. The grapes are fully destemmed, reflecting a desire for purity of fruit and polished tannins.
Fermentation takes place in concrete vats, allowing for micro-oxygenation without imparting flavor. The **long maceration—lasting 4 to 6 weeks—**is gently managed through regular pump-overs, ensuring refined tannin extraction and aromatic depth.
The wine is matured for 14 months in French oak barrels, with just 20% new oak, providing subtle textural enhancement without masking the expression of terroir. The result is a poised and structured Shiraz that mirrors Chapoutier's philosophy of balance, finesse, and sense of place.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep ruby with purple reflections, signaling youth and concentration.
- Aroma: Vivid layers of crushed red berries, leather, and cassis interwoven with hints of butter caramel, incense, and exotic spice.
- Palate: A commanding yet elegant wine, showing ripe black fruits, black pepper, and savoury spice, all wrapped in silky, fine-grained tannins. The acidity is vibrant, lending freshness and lift, while the structure is persistent and mineral-driven, echoing the Cambrian soil origins.
Did you know?
Michel Chapoutier's venture into Australia began in the late 1990s, but it wasn't until the early 2000s that he founded Domaine Tournon with a focus on the Pyrenees and Heathcote regions. The name "Lady's Lane" pays homage to the historic road that borders the vineyard and reflects the estate's commitment to site-specific expression rather than generic varietal power.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Lamb shoulder with rosemary and garlic - the wine's spice and richness complement roasted game meats beautifully.
- Beef Wellington - the savory notes of mushroom and pastry align with the Shiraz's earthy undertones and elegant tannins.
- Duck breast with cherry glaze - a perfect partner to the wine's acidity and red fruit profile.
- Aged hard cheeses like Manchego or aged Gouda - their nuttiness and saltiness balance the wine's richness.
