Yarra Valley winemaker Innocent Bystander has released a new red wine ahead of winter: 2022 Shiraz Cienna. Striking in colour, the 80 per cent Shiraz; 20 percent Cienna blend is flavoursome and smooth with notes of raspberries, blackcurrants and pepper spice.
Innocent Bystander’s says Shiraz Cienna is a 'tasty, sophisticated' wine for the cooler months.
Matured for a short time in a combination of French and American oak, the new wine tastes like wild berry compote and sweet Hoisin with soft tannins.
Innocent Bystander winemaker Geoff Alexander says there was 'real excitement' around releasing a unique blend.
“This will be the first time Innocent Bystander has used Cienna grapes, and blending it with Shiraz offers a flavour spectrum unlike anything we have produced before.
“In the winemaking process, we have deliberately treated the grapes very softly and carefully to enhance the plush fruit flavours and to avoid any harsh or bitter tannins.
“The result is a smooth, rich, red wine with velvety cherry and raspberry aromas and a soft finish that will appeal to those who don’t find traditional red wines to their liking,” Alexander said.
Innocent Bystander’s 2022 Shiraz Cienna is vegan-friendly and can be cellared for up to five years, and is available now online for RRP $20.00 per bottle.
