2025 Tempranillo, McLaren Vale, South Australia
Befitting to our Mediterranean climate, Tempranillo exudes silky texture and a delicious juxtaposition of floral and savoury vibes.
The 2007 Tempranillo was the first release of this single vineyard wine, with only 100 dozen cases made. We’ve been trialing a number of different grape varieties that perform well in warmer climates and use less water. At this stage, Tempranillo shows great promise for the region. Being a lighter style, the wine is approachable and soft with attractive aromatics.
Organic/Biodynamic
3.82
5.07
1.6
Vintage 2025 was one for the record book: warm, dry, and fast-moving. It was the driest growing season McLaren Vale has seen since 2003, with around 120-200 mm less rainfall than the previous two vintages. A warm and early spring encouraged even bud burst and flowering, while a stable summer delivered ideal ripening conditions without any extreme heat spikes. With little disease pressure fruit quality was exceptionally clean. The dry conditions led to one of the most compressed vintages in recent memory, with nearly all vineyards picked within a six-week window between early February and mid-March. Overall, the 2025 season produced expressive, balanced wines with plenty of brightness and structure—reflecting both the heat of the season and the resilience of our organically and biodynamically farmed vines.
Rich violet
A wild, wandering bouquet — cherry, mulberry and dried figs tumble together like a tin of mixed jubes, all dusted in fragrance. Earthy beetroot and anise ground the wine, giving it a rustic, untamed edge.
Savoury and smooth, with layers unfolding one after another. Earthy tannins wrap around a plush, squishy centre, while a thread of leather bounces through the intensely flavoured palate. A lift of floral rose petal adds perfume, and subtle oak spice weaves in complexity. Moderate tannin, medium-bodied, and gloriously long and composed on the finish — moreish to the very last drop, leaving you wanting more.
GOOD: Immediately. BETTER: Winter 2027. BEST: 2028-2030
This is a wine for slow evenings and hearty tables — think fireside dinners, long conversations, and dishes with a little rustic soul. Its savoury, earthy character loves roasted or braised meats, charred vegetables and dishes built on beetroot, mushroom or game. A share plate of Spanish-style tapas — chorizo, manchego, olives — feels right at home, while its floral lift and spice make it just as happy alongside a simple roast on a cool night in.
Our earliest ripening red variety, this wine kicks of the season. Fermented in open topped fermenters and plunged daily for gently tannin and flavour extraction. Matured in seasoned French oak puncheons and stainless steel for 8 months prior to bending.
Kate Goodman
Landcross Farm and Jones Block
Fleetwood Mac — Everywhere
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OPENING HOURS:
7 days a week, 10am – 5pm
Tastings available daily –
bookings preferred
Phone: (08) 8323 9131
Email: wine@paxtonwines.com
68 Wheaton Road, McLaren Vale
South Australia 5171
PAXTON SOCIAL WINE CLUB
Phone: 0400 863 400
Email: janet@paxtonwines.com