The Latin word “Meracus" was selected for its meaning of “pure” and “unmixed”.   This title will be retained exclusively for parcels of fruit that attain unique and unrivalled expressions of variety and terroir.   Wines that display this name will exhibit the superior and distinctive qualities worthy of true “Reserve” status.

The “Fifty Three Shiraz” refers to the gnarled old vines from which this wine comes - these were planted in 1953.

This is our best Shiraz from the 2004 vintage, and the first “Reserve” release since 2001.   Stunning depth of colour indicates the density of this wine.   Concentrated aromas of blueberry, vanilla, chocolate, graphite and blackberry liqueur dominate, complimented by a secondary floral note.   Dense dark cherry awaits on the palate, overlaid by dusted pure cocoa, and developing cigar box flavours.   The dominant impression left in the mouth is the seamless layering of oak, fruit and silky tannins

Download PDF tasting note.

A small parcel of Shiraz fruit from the 2001 vintage was kept aside due to the unique and intense flavour it displayed that was distinctly different to that which is typically used to make the Ellen Street Shiraz.   Identified as something quite special, this parcel was separately vinified in new French and American oak hogsheads to produce a wine of considerable palate weight, intensity and complexity.

A dense red-black colour in its youth, the aroma of spice and blackberry with complimenting oak shows the best qualities of McLaren Vale Shiraz.   A palate of ripe dark berries, dark chocolate and black pepper fills the mouth, lasting well beyond the initial taste.   Fine oak tannins provide balance and texture, creating a superbly balanced style with great length.

Wines that attain the Maxwell Reserve status are chosen for the striking individuality and pure essence of varietal character they display.   This selection process results in wines of incredible finesse that are rich in flavour and texture, with noteworthy power, intensity, and complexity.

The 2001 Reserve Lime Cave Cabernet is a deep red-black in colour with a bright crimson hue.   Varietal notes of blackcurrant and tobacco leaf combine to produce a rich aroma.   The pure Cabernet palate is quite masculine in character, where dark chocolate and liquorice join a forest of dark fruits and berries.   Beautifully integrated spiced oak adds further structure and finesse, the wine finishing with incredible length, indicating its considerable cellaring potential.

Sourced from one of our growers here in McLaren Vale, the fruit for this varietal Grenache comes from 100 year old bush vines that are amongst the oldest in the region.   These vines only bear tiny amounts of small berries that are prized for their wonderful flavour intensity.

With 2002 being one of the better vintages in recent times, it was no wonder this parcel of Grenache demanded separate vinification to create a limited release wine of superior varietal expression.   A beautiful mix of spice, white pepper and sweet red berries combine to produce the unique Grenache aroma.   The palate follows with more pepper, black cherries, raspberries and stewed plum.   An earthy and savoury finish provides added interest.