D’Arenberg The Anthropocene Epoch Mencia 2017

D'Arenberg is a long-established McLaren Vale producer in South Australia, working its vineyards organically and biodynamically. Mencía is unusual here, being a variety associated with north-west Spain, and this wine takes its name from the Anthropocene, the proposed epoch in which human activity became the dominant force shaping the planet. McLaren Vale has a warm maritime climate moderated by afternoon breezes off the Gulf St Vincent, with a wide range of soils from sandy loam to ironstone and limestone that hold water and lend savoury structure. The fruit is fermented and aged in wood, where slow oxygen exchange through the barrel softens tannin and builds a leathery, spiced complexity over time. Malolactic fermentation converts sharp malic acid into softer lactic acid, rounding the mid-palate. The colour is deep red. The nose shows red currant, plum and cherry, with pepper, dried herbs and a touch of leather. The palate is medium bodied and earthy, with fine grippy tannin and a savoury liquorice note on the finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, ideally decanted. It suits roast beef, slow-cooked pork and mushroom dishes.