Frequently Asked Questions
Discover the Kay Brothers Basket Pressed Shiraz, a timeless expression of McLaren Vale's rich winemaking heritage. Crafted with meticulous care using their historic 1928 basket press, this Shiraz captures the region's bold essence with its deep ruby hue, aromas of pepper, aniseed, and dark fruits, and a luscious palate bursting with plum, blackberry, and spice. Produced sustainably from vines rooted in the Amery Vineyard, established in 1891, this wine embodies over 130 years of tradition and expertise. Perfectly balanced with velvety tannins and an exceptional finish, the Basket Pressed Shiraz is the quintessential choice for those seeking a full-bodied red that pairs beautifully with hearty dishes.
Process & Profile
The Kay Brothers Basket Pressed Shiraz is crafted with meticulous care in the tradition of centuries-old winemaking practices. Established in 1890, Kay Brothers is the oldest McLaren Vale winery still under founding family ownership, and their wines reflect a deep heritage of quality and craftsmanship. Using a 1928 Celestin Coq & Compagnie Basket Press, the grapes are pressed gently to extract cleaner juice and softer tannins, highlighting the winery's commitment to traditional methods. The Shiraz grapes, predominantly from vines with an eastern exposure, thrive in the complex soils of McLaren Vale, which include quartz and ironstone gravels, weathered sandstone, siltstone, and limestone.Tasting Notes
The Kay Brothers Basket Pressed Shiraz boasts a rich and vibrant profile, showcasing deep, dark red hues. On the nose, it reveals aromas of mulberry, clove, roasted hazelnut, cigar box, and cedar, while juicy red berries flood the palate, finishing with a satisfying persistence. The wine exudes a depth of character with hints of dark chocolate and licorice, typical of McLaren Vale's hot climate influence.What Makes It Special
What sets this wine apart is its historical connection and meticulous production method. The use of the original basket press from the 1920s underscores Kay Brothers' dedication to preserving traditional winemaking techniques, resulting in superior quality wines with distinct softer tannins. The Amery Vineyard, with its complex geology and aged vines, contributes to the wine's powerful and concentrated flavors. This Shiraz is a flagship representation of the winery's over a century of expertise and respect for the craft.How to Enjoy
To fully appreciate the Kay Brothers Basket Pressed Shiraz, it is recommended to serve it at room temperature or slightly cooler to highlight its complex flavors. It pairs beautifully with robust dishes such as roasted meats (especially lamb or beef), game meats, or rich cheeses like cheddar. The wine's depth and structure make it suitable for both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring, providing an appealing option for both connoisseurs seeking immediate gratification and collectors looking to age a premium Shiraz.Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of Kay Brothers Basket Pressed Shiraz?
This Shiraz features intense flavors of dark fruits like blackberries and blueberries, complemented with spicy notes of black pepper, subtle oak, and hints of chocolate. It is full-bodied with a rich, lingering finish, ideal for red wine enthusiasts.
What foods pair well with this Shiraz?
This wine pairs wonderfully with grilled or roasted meats, especially lamb, beef, or game. It also complements flavorful dishes featuring exotic spices, hearty stews, and rich cheeses.
How should this wine be served?
For the best experience, serve Kay Brothers Basket Pressed Shiraz at a temperature of 60–65°F (15–18°C). Use a wide-bowled glass to allow the wine to breathe, and consider decanting for about an hour before serving to enhance the flavors.
Is Kay Brothers Basket Pressed Shiraz suitable for aging?
Yes, this Shiraz has excellent aging potential. Thanks to its high tannin content and structure, it can age gracefully for up to 10–15 years, developing more complex, earthy, and savory flavors over time.
Where does this Shiraz originate from?
Kay Brothers Basket Pressed Shiraz is sourced from McLaren Vale, South Australia, a region renowned for its top-quality Shiraz wines with bold flavors and rich textures due to its warm climate and unique terroir.
What is the difference between Shiraz and Syrah?
Shiraz and Syrah come from the same grape variety but differ in style. Shiraz, like this wine, typically refers to rich, fruit-forward wines from warmer climates like Australia. Syrah, on the other hand, often originates from cooler regions like France, offering more earthy and herbaceous notes.
Does this wine contain added sugar?
Kay Brothers Basket Pressed Shiraz is a dry wine. Its rich, ripe fruit flavors come from the fully ripened grapes rather than residual sugar, making it ideal for those who prefer bold but not sweet wines.
Can this wine be shipped internationally?
For international shipping inquiries, it is recommended to contact Kay Brothers directly to confirm availability and shipping options for your country.
What is unique about the basket pressing method?
Basket pressing is a traditional winemaking method that gently extracts juice from the grapes, preserving delicate flavors and minimizing bitterness. This method contributes to the wine's finesse, balanced tannins, and rich texture.
How can I store this wine?
Store the wine in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature (around 55°F or 13°C) and proper humidity. Ensure the bottle is stored on its side to keep the cork moist if it is sealed with cork.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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